Hope you didn’t sell everything you own to go into the mask business. Data released by the CDC shows Covid levels have dropped enough that more than 90% of Americans can go without masks. The data shows nearly everyone in the country lives in an area with low to medium risk, though that data came out after the CDC tweaked how it measures risk. The new CDC guidance applies to everyone — including school kids and the unvaccinated. It does not, for whatever reason, apply to air travel, trains, or public transit.Yes, Omicron was reported as milder than the Delta variant, but that doesn’t mean it’s no big deal. Japanese scientists say it’s at least 40% more lethal than seasonal flu. The case fatality rate of Omicron in Japan was about 0.13%, while the flu typically has a 0.006% to 0.09% death rate. They say more study is needed once all the restrictions are lifted. If you have arthritis, it’s rare you feel lucky but when it comes to the pandemic, you may have been. Baricitinib is an oral drug commonly taken for rheumatoid arthritis, and an expansive study out of Oxford shows it reduced hospitalized COVID-19 patients’ risk of dying by 13%. Scientists and doctors welcomed the addition of the pill to the few treatments already shown to help treat severe COVID, especially since the drug comes in generic versions low- and middle-income countries can afford.A couple of good news items for kids. The European Medicines Agency has authorized Moderna's vaccine for children aged six to 11, in addition to recommending boosters of Pfizer's vaccine for those aged 12 and up. And a new study has found Pfizer’s vaccine is 91% effective at protecting young people ages 12 to 18 against infection for at least four months after their second shot.You may want to dust off the luggage as well. Rules requiring people to show a Covid-19 vaccine passport to access venues will be lifted in France March 14 and face masks will no longer be needed indoors except for on public transport. And vaccinated travelers to Italy will no longer have to test before entering the country. Unvaccinated travelers must still show proof of a negative test before entering. And once in country everyone must still get a “Super Green Pass” to stay at hotels, take trains, or eat at restaurants. In the United States, cases were down 55%, deaths are down 26%, and hospitalizations are down 43% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five areas that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Arkansas, Maine, West Virginia, Tennessee, and the Northern Mariana Islands. There are 25,724,877 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands. Nome Census Area, AK. Bennington, VT. Linn, MO. Roanoke, VA. Pike, KY. Twin Falls, ID. Perry, KY. Fayette, AL. and Jerome, ID.There have been 956,262 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island at 80.7%, Vermont at 80.1%, and Maine at 78.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 50.3%, Wyoming at 50.6%, and Mississippi at 51%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 65%.Globally, cases were down 25% and deaths down 27% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 61,379,411 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Germany 202,338. South Korea 198,802. Vietnam 118,790. Russia 93,026. And Japan 71,570. There have been 5,982,566 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for March 3rd, 2022. The US has a new plan for COVID. The White House said it's time for America to stop letting the coronavirus “dictate how we live.” Part of the new plan is a new “test to treat” program to provide free antiviral pills at pharmacies for anyone who tests positive. The plan also seeks to get ready for potential new variants and give employers and schools what they need to stay open.If you want them, you can get more free COVID tests from the government. The key there is “if you want them.” So far, a great many Americans have not shown much interest, which is why about half of the available supply is still available. Starting next week, you can order another group of tests at Covidtest.gov. The previous limit was four tests per residential address.Australia is now fully open to vaccinated travelers. Western Australia, which covers about a third of the country, became the last state to lift border restrictions today. This came four months after Sydney started a staggered reopening of quarantine-free travel. Western Australia was having good luck with contact tracing and isolation until the Omicron variant came along. Now they’re reporting more than 1,000 new infections a day.Germany is also putting out the welcome mat again, removing all the countries currently on its list of “high-risk areas.” The list will now only include places where high infection rates are linked to more virulent variants than Omicron. Visitors will still have to show proof of vaccination or a negative test.Even if the pandemic is over, it’s not over for those suffering with long COVID. And a new small study from the National Institutes of Health says many of the symptoms people are suffering from may be driven, in part, by long-term nerve damage. 59% had peripheral neuropathy, which is damage to the nerves that connect the brain to the outside world. Symptoms include weakness, fatigue, sensory changes, and pain in the hands and feet. The researchers don’t sound totally confident, saying the study was of a very small and "biased data set" since the patients studied were already believed to have a neurological condition.In the United States, cases were down 58%, deaths are down 18%, and hospitalizations are down 44% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five areas that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Missouri, Arkansas, Mississippi, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Tennessee. There are 25,845,090 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands. Nome Census Area, AK. Manassas Park, VA. Fayette, AL. Perry, KY. Elmore, ID. Ada, ID. Morgan, KY. Gooding, ID. And Bennington, VT. There have been 954,512 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island at 80.7%, Vermont at 80.1%, and Maine at 78.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 50.3%, Wyoming at 50.6%, and Mississippi at 50.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 65%.Globally, cases were down 27% and deaths down 19% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 61,540,184 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: South Korea 219,237. Germany 198,457. Vietnam 110,301. Russia 97,455. And Japan 61,843. There have been 5,972,440 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The CDC estimates there have been 140 million Covid-19 infections in the US, that’s almost double the 74.3 million cases that have been reported as of January 31 and 43% of the country. The new number comes from antibody seroprevalence surveys, in which blood samples submitted to labs for unrelated reasons are tested for antibodies triggered by infection, not by vaccination. Wisconsin has the highest seroprevalence, with an estimated 56.1% of its population infected. A tragic statistic from an updated modeling study in The Lancet shows that the number of children around the world affected by COVID-associated orphanhood and caregiver death is estimated to have gone up dramatically. From around 2.7 million in April 2021 to 5.2 million in October 2021. That’s the equivalent of one child orphaned every six seconds. The loss of a parent is linked to greater risk of dropping out of school, lower self-esteem, suicide, violence, sexual abuse, and developing anxiety, depression, and substance abuse problems. In England, one less thing to argue about. Mandatory Covid vaccinations for health and social care workers will be scrapped March 15. That policy met fierce resistance from some workers, and critics warned firing those not in compliance would worsen the serious staffing crisis in health and care services. But the damage is done; many have left their jobs, and some left the field altogether. If you want to go to Hawaii, you can say aloha unmasked and you don’t have to hula six feet apart anymore. The state is lifting its strict entry requirements March 26. Travelers won’t have to show proof of a vaccine or negative test to bypass a mandatory quarantine. And that five-day quarantine is going away, too. However, for now, Hawaii is keeping its indoor mask mandate. But it’s Hawaii…go outside. We’ve heard there wasn’t much risk of this, but researchers now think they’ve documented the first deer-to-human transmission of COVID. The culprit was a white-tailed deer in Ontario. It was found to have a new and highly divergent lineage of the coronavirus, and they found a person that had similar samples. Available data indicates it's unlikely the variant doesn’t respond to vaccines, but maybe don’t take any white-tailed deer onto public transportation or a cruise.  In the United States, cases were down 59%, deaths are down 23%, and hospitalizations are down 44% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five areas that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Ohio, Maine, Tennessee, West Virginia, and the Northern Mariana Islands.  There are 25,989,717 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands. Manassas Park, VA. Nome Census Area, AK. Fayette, AL. Perry, KY. Morgan, KY. Elmore, ID. Aroostook, ME. Bennington, VT. And Ada, ID.There have been 952,629 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island at 80.7%, Vermont at 80.1%, and Maine at 78.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 50.2%, Wyoming at 50.6%, and Mississippi at 50.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.9%.Globally, cases were down 30% and deaths down 20% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 61,832,820 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Germany 150,565. South Korea 138,993. Vietnam 98,762. Russia 97,333. And France 79,794. There have been 5,964,226 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Looks like Americans were definitely ready for the pandemic to be done. A new AP poll shows fewer people now than in January are worried they’ll get infected, only 24%. Of those who say they still worry, about two-thirds are fully vaccinated while only 40% are unvaccinated. Most Americans think the virus will stick around as a mild illness. Public support for masking requirements has also gone down, but Americans are still more likely to favor than oppose mask mandates, 50% to 28%.  They’re still worrying in Hong Kong after another record 34,466 new infections yesterday and deaths continuing to climb. Now, authorities have begun assessing the possibility of locking down the entire city. It remains to be seen whether that would be done through legislation or some other way, but just the rumor of a lockdown sent shoppers racing to supermarket shelves to stock up. Pfizer’s had a pretty good effectiveness record, but it turns out in kids, not so much. Data from the NY State Department of Health shows for kids 5 to 11, effectiveness waned quickly during the Omicron surge. It still protected against severe disease, though. Within one month, effectiveness against infection fell from 68% to 12% in that young age group. Schoolkids in California, Oregon and Washington won’t have to wear masks anymore. The three Democratic governors of those states made a joint announcement to that effect yesterday. Those states have had some of the strictest safety measures during the pandemic and that included masking up 7.5 million school-age children. The change begins March 12 and applies to all kids regardless of vaccination status.  COVID not scary enough for you? How about learning COVID tests can kill you? Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Centers Drug and Poison Information Center say those home test kits contain sodium azide. And they’re getting a surge of calls about poisonings from it. New York and Texas are also sounding the alarm. The chemical is mainly used in car airbags and to kill bugs. Ingesting it can cause low blood pressure, dizziness, headaches, and heart palpitations. Large amounts of it can lead to respiratory failure and death. Of course, you’re not supposed to ingest anything from COVID tests but somehow people manage to do so.  In the United States, cases were down 62%, deaths are down 24%, and hospitalizations are down 44% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five areas that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Ohio, West Virginia, Maine, Tennessee, and the Northern Mariana Islands.   There are 26,171,931 active cases in the United States. The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Manassas Park, VA. Nome Census Area, AK. Perry, KY. Elmore, ID. Fayette, AL. Linn, MO. Morgan, KY. Ada, ID. Aroostook, ME. And Gooding, ID.  There have been 950,472 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island at 80.8%, Vermont at 80%, and Maine at 78.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 50.4%, Alabama at 50.5%, and Mississippi at 50.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.9%. Globally, cases were down 34% and deaths down 19% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25.  There are 62,674,400 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: South Korea 139,615. Russia 106,920. Germany 95,396. Turkey 64,275. And Japan 63,703.  There have been 5,955,552 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s how we’re doing. COVID is continuing to subside around the world with a weekly 16% decrease in deaths and 15% decrease in cases since Omicron first showed up. However, Asia's infections rose 4% and deaths were only down 0.9% with South Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam and Hong Kong setting daily records last week. In fact, Hong Kong recorded 26,026 cases after never going above 100 every day until this year. New Zealand is also hitting five digits in cases for the first time.The FDA revised the emergency use authorization for Evusheld, a monoclonal antibody against Covid for immunocompromised people and those who can’t be vaccinated for medical reasons. They now say you need twice the dose that’s been being given. Those who already got the drug are being told to go back and get another injection as soon as possible. The agency said protection against symptomatic disease may not last as long as was shown in clinical trials since that was before the Omicron sub-variants emerged.What perfect timing! Face coverings are now optional for the US President's State of the Union address tomorrow. Congress is lifting its mask requirement on the House floor after the CDC eased guidelines last week. DC is now considered low risk based on the new metrics of what’s happening in area hospitals. Of course, anyone who wants to can still mask up while listening to the speech.Things continue to loosen up in New York too. The statewide masking requirement in schools will be lifted by March 2. And New York City’s Mayor is thinking about lifting vaccine mandates on restaurants, bars, and theaters by early next week. A mask mandate on the city's approximately 1 million schoolchildren could also be lifted. Again, any parent who wants to keep their kid masked can keep them masked. Oh boy, free (meaning paid for by taxpayers) COVID tests for everyone! But it’s turning out to be one of the few free things that isn’t wanted. Nearly half of the 500 million free tests still haven’t been claimed. On day one there were over 45 million orders. After that, not so much. Less than 100,000 orders a day are coming in. Critics say the program would have been immensely helpful before the pandemic was largely over. In the United States, cases were down 63%, deaths are down 24%, and hospitalizations are down 44% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Ohio, West Virginia, Maine, Tennessee, and Missouri.  There are 26,401,648 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Manassas Park, VA. Nome Census Area, AK. Perry, KY. Elmore, ID. Fayette, AL. Linn, MO. Morgan, KY. Aroostook, ME. Ada, ID. And Gooding, ID. There have been 948,398 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island at 80.6%, Vermont at 80.1%, and Maine at 78.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 50.2%, Wyoming at 50.6%, and Mississippi at 50.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.9%.Globally, cases were down 36% and deaths down 20% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 63,676,869 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: South Korea 163,558. Russia 116,093. Germany 95,241. Vietnam 86,990. And Japan 69,661. There have been 5,948,460 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 25th, 2022. We’re starting to learn a little more about the so-called stealth Omicron or BA2 variant. It’s now causing more than a third of new Omicron cases around the world. It’s been found in more than 80 countries and all 50 US states. It’s called stealth because it can’t quickly be differentiated from Delta using a certain PCR test. Early research suggests it spreads 30% faster than Omicron and can sicken people even if they've already had an Omicron infection. Vaccines still appear effective against it.We could have another change coming from the CDC today. They’re expected to significantly loosen federal mask-wearing guidelines, meaning most of us will no longer be advised to wear masks in indoor public settings. The metrics driving the decision are hospitalizations and local hospital capacity.As we attempt to put COVID behind us, many of us who survived an infection are left with questions about exactly what it did to us. For example, a new study found in the year after contracting COVID, patients are at an increased risk for developing 20 cardiac problems. Those include stroke, heart attack, myocarditis and irregular heart rhythms. The researchers estimate COVID infections have led to 3 million cases of heart disease in the US alone.  We always like to reassure those of you who are worried the big pharma companies not making enough money off of COVID vaccines. For Moderna, sales brought in $6.9 billion in the fourth quarter of 2021, and the company has signed purchase agreements for about $19 billion in sales for 2022 with options for an additional $3 billion to cover any updated boosters they’re developing. So they’re okay.And there’s apparently another culprit being called out for spreading COVID and vaccine misinformation. It’s people who do yoga. Some practitioners have been alarmed at the spread of anti-vaccination views in and around classes. One influencer who studies the practice said it’s nothing new, there’s a constant sense in yoga world that “I know better than doctors and the system.”In the United States, cases were down 65%, deaths are down 27%, and hospitalizations are down 43% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Maine, West Virginia, Ohio, Missouri, and Arizona.  There are 26,814,308 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Manassas Park, VA. Nome Census Area, AK. Perry, KY. Elmore, ID. Linn, MO. Morgan, KY. Houston, MN. Ada, ID. Aroostook, ME. And Gooding, ID. There have been 944,828 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island at 80.5%, Vermont at 80.1%, and Maine at 78.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 50.1%, Wyoming at 50.5%, and Mississippi at 50.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.8%.Globally, cases were down 36% and deaths down 17% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 65,116,099 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Germany 218,431. South Korea 170,006. Russia 132,998. Brazil 95,493. And Turkey 79,708. There have been 5,927,592 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 24th, 2022. The US full vaccination rate is still quite a way from even 70%, and it doesn’t look like it’s going to get any better. Demand has all but collapsed, especially in states that weren’t so hot on it to begin with. The average number of Americans getting their first shot is down to the lowest point since December 2020. Incentive programs didn’t really work, and government and employer mandates are being challenged in every way they can be challenged.If you felt like crap the day after getting your second vaccine shot, it may be because the experts gave you some bad advice. US health officials now say some people really need to wait up to eight weeks between the first and second doses. For the rest of us who already got it, we were told to get it in three to four weeks. Not only does the longer interval help avoid side effects, the CDC says it also provides more lasting protection. A new report says the government in the UK is getting increasingly certain the pandemic did in fact result from a lab leak in Wuhan, China. In fact, it is now the official view. You’ll remember that theory was rapidly dismissed by world governments and its proponents derided by health experts early in the pandemic. Many still call even trying to find out how the pandemic happened a distraction.Better late than never? The French pharmaceuticals giant Sanofi said its Covid vaccine, developed with GlaxoSmithKline, delivered positive results after nearly a year of delays and now they’ll seek FDA authorization in the US. The results weren’t just positive. Tests indicated a 100% effectiveness against severe Covid and hospitalization. It doesn’t use mRNA technology; it’s based on recombinant protein tech like Novavax’s vaccine. If you start seeing smiling faces on employees of Target, that’s because the store will no longer require its staff or shoppers to wear masks inside its stores. They will keep the one hour each week on Tuesdays when vulnerable guests can shop safely. In the United States, cases were down 66%, deaths are down 26%, and hospitalizations are down 43% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Maine, Arizona, West Virginia, Tennessee, and Ohio. There are 26,952,312 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Manassas Park, VA. Nome Census Area, AK. Pointe Coupee, LA. Perry, KY. Houston, MN. Big Horn, MT. Elmore, ID. Morgan, KY. Glacier, MT. And Aroostook, ME. There have been 941,889 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island at 80.5%, Vermont at 80.1%, and Maine at 78.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 50.1%, Wyoming at 50.5%, and Mississippi at 50.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.8%.Globally, cases were down 36% and deaths down 15% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 65,659,102 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Germany 219,859. South Korea 171,448. Russia 137,642. Brazil 133,626. And Turkey 86,600. There have been 5,916,526 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 23rd, 2022. Hong Kong is going to test its entire population of 7.5 million people three times for COVID in March. To get that done, testing capacity will be boosted to 1 million a day or more. The city’s reported about 5,000 new infections since February 15 and the healthcare system is buckling. A lockdown of the entire city, something that’s been done a few times in mainland China, is not currently being considered.Amidst criticism of vaccine inequities, donations of the vaccine to Africa were well-intentioned, but the Africa CDC has a message for the do-gooders. Stop it. They want all donations paused until the third or fourth quarter of this year. They say the problem isn’t a supply shortage, it’s logistics challenges combined with vaccine hesitancy. As a result, there’s a lot of vaccine just going to waste.  Lots of numbers are falling, like case rates, death rates, hospitalizations, COVID restrictions, etc., but there’s something else that has absolutely plummeted in demand. PCR tests. The CDC says nationwide demand for a COVID-19 PCR test has dropped 63% since early January. You could attribute part of that to the government mailing out free rapid tests but, PCR tests are a different, and proposedly more accurate way to find out if you’re infected or not.Cruise lines, one right after the other, have been dropping their mask mandates. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Virgin have either already stopped requiring masks in most indoor settings or will start next month. MSC Cruises and Disney have not made that decision yet. The new goal is making sure passengers are fully vaccinated and boosted.Throughout the pandemic, most of us have been amazed at what we didn’t know. And even now in February of 2022, it’s amazing what we still don’t know. On that list of still unknowns is how many booster shots we’ll need, how long immunity from vaccines lasts, are there more dangerous variants coming, why does COVID make some people seriously ill and give people long COVID while other people shrug it off, and where did COVID-19 come from? Science has no answers for these questions so you can continue to argue about them amongst yourselves. In the United States, cases were down 65%, deaths are down 19%, and hospitalizations are down 43% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Tennessee, Maine, Mississippi, West Virginia, and Oklahoma. There are 27,107,363 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Manassas Park, VA. Marengo, AL. Pointe Coupee, LA. Attala, MS. Big Horn, MT. Perry, KY. Glacier, MT. Elmore, ID. And Washington, TN.There have been 938,938 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island at 80.3%, Vermont at 80%, and Maine at 78.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 50%, Wyoming at 50.5%, and Mississippi at 50.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.7%.Globally, cases were down 34% and deaths down 16% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 66,265,532 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Germany 158,507. Russia 135,172. Brazil 101,285. South Korea 99,550. And France 97,382. There have been 5,904,723 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 22nd, 2022. If you want something to worry about, you can continue to worry about the Omicron variant BA2, because it’s spreading about 30% more easily than the first Omicron, which as we recall spread pretty darn fast. Infectious disease experts are keeping a close eye on it because they assumed it would take off in the US like it has in Europe. So far that hasn't happened, but it’s steadily spreading even as the Omicron surge keeps dissipating. Britain is scrapping the self-isolation rules starting Thursday to jump start the country's economy. People who test positive will no longer have to self-isolate for a minimum five days. That doesn’t apply to Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, which set their own regulations. The reasoning is that COVID isn’t going to suddenly disappear and waiting for that would restrict the liberties of the British people for a long time to come.Even as we report falling case numbers, there’s still an average 2,200 people dying with COVID in the US daily. So who are these people? Doctors say it’s still mainly unvaccinated people, most of whom are in their 30s and 40s, who had no underlying health issues. A smaller percentage of deaths are among fully vaccinated (and boosted) people who are either older or have preexisting conditions.We’re all eager to put the pandemic behind us, or at least beside us. But the Cleveland Clinic says it’s too soon to give the coronavirus endemic status. Doctors say they don’t know if it’s going to settle as a seasonal respiratory virus like the other coronaviruses or mutate and come back as something worse. It’s a game of wait and see. They say right now, the precautions people take will most likely be based on their personal comfort levels. You may have heard it before, the place you’re most likely to get sick is in a hospital. And it was thought that hospitals were an outstanding place to catch COVID as well. But a study has shown that the rates of acquiring COVID during a hospital stay were actually quite low, with only about 1.8% of patients contracting it during their stay at the highest peak of cases in December 2020.In the United States, cases were down 65%, deaths are down 15%, and hospitalizations are down 42% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Tennessee, Maine, West Virginia, Mississippi, and Oklahoma. There are 27,255,881 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Marengo, AL. Manassas Park, VA. Pointe Coupee, LA. Attala, MS. Big Horn, MT. Perry, KY. Estill, KY. Floyd, KY. And Butler, KY. There have been 935,970 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island at 80.3%, Vermont at 80%, and Maine at 78.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 50%, Wyoming at 50.5%, and Mississippi at 50.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.7%.Globally, cases were down 38% and deaths down 7% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 67,132,248 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Russia 152,337. Germany 111,824. South Korea 95,347. Turkey 85,026. And Japan 72,861. There have been 5,889,937 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 21st, 2022. The UK government announced those with COVID won't be legally required to self-isolate starting this week. That’s part of the plan for “living with COVID” that will also probably see testing scaled back. The Prime Minister said, “We’ve reached a stage where we think you can shift the balance away from state mandation in favor of encouraging personal responsibility.” Of course, some of the government’s scientific advisers are saying it’s a risky move.Israel announced it’s going to allow unvaccinated tourists to enter the country starting next month. But vaccinated or not, visitors will have to take a PCR test before flying and after landing. Israel has mostly restricted the entry of foreign tourists for the past two years and shut it down altogether late last year with the arrival of Omicron. Requirements for weekly testing of school children will also be halted in the coming weeks.The CDC is coming under fire for holding back vitally important coronavirus data. The New York Times reports there’s an eyebrow-raising quantity of data that was either never released, released only recently, was partially released, or was released with limited access. For example, they’ve had data on hospitalizations for Covid across the U.S. for over a year, broken down by age, race, and vaccination status. Most of that data has never been seen.Now that the mRNA vaccine cat is out of the bag, what else can the technology be used for? Moderna has announced three of their next targets for it. The herpes simplex virus, the varicella-zoster virus, and a novel cancer vaccine. That gets added to some they’d already announced, including HIV, influenza, cytomegalovirus, and the Epstein-Barr virus.Further proof that COVID can get to anyone, Queen Elizabeth II has tested positive. And that’s a big deal not only because she’s a reigning monarch, but because she’s 95-years-old. However, so far, her symptoms have been mild and cold-like. She’s even continuing some light duties at Windsor this week. The Queen is fully vaccinated. In the United States, cases were down 65%, deaths are down 13%, and hospitalizations are down 41% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Tennessee, the third most fully vaccinated state of Maine, West Virginia, Mississippi, and Arkansas. There are 27,454,250 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Marengo, AL. Manassas Park, VA. Pointe Coupee, LA. Attala, MS. Big Horn, MT. Perry, KY. Estill, KY. Floyd, KY. And Butler, KY. There have been 935,331 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island at 80.3%, Vermont at 80%, and Maine at 78.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama becoming the last state to be under the halfway mark at 50%, Wyoming at 50.5%, and Mississippi at 50.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.7%.Globally, cases were down 38% and deaths down 6% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 68,568,289 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Russia 170,699. South Korea 104,828. Germany 104,131. Japan 77,153. And Turkey 70,355. There have been 5,886,362 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 18th, 2022. One influential model estimates 73% of Americans are, for now, immune to Omicron, and that could rise to 80% by mid-March. The coronavirus is still dangerous and tens of millions remain vulnerable. But at this point, experts say at least most immune systems have seen the coronavirus before and won’t be as vulnerable. California is moving on. It became the first state to formally shift to an “endemic” approach to the coronavirus with a plan that emphasizes prevention and quick reaction to outbreaks rather than mandated masking and business shutdowns. A disease reaches endemic status when the virus still exists but becomes manageable as immunity builds.Is the White House aware of what stage of the pandemic we’re in and that several states are dropping mask mandates? The administration says it’s now going to focus on making sure kid-sized masks are distributed to pharmacies and community health centers. Regular masks don’t always fit little faces well. The CDC does recommend kids 2-years old and up who aren’t vaccinated stay masked in indoor public spaces.You’ll notice the vaccination rates we’ve been reporting have been pretty much stuck. But now that we have some hindsight, what arguments did work in terms of convincing skeptics to get the shots? A Harvard Business School study says altruistic messages like protecting others or the economy worked better than self-protection messages. The study found mixed results at best for vaccine mandates making a difference.It was accused of being a super spreader event, but was it? The CDC has concluded that just because a person tested positive for Omicron after attending an anime convention in New York City late last year, it wasn’t a super spreader event. They credit vaccinations and good airflow at the convention center. Plus, a lot of cosplay going on, so it was a place you were going to find a lot of masks anyway. In the United States, cases were down 68%, deaths are down 13%, and hospitalizations are down 39% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Mississippi, West Virginia, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Idaho. There are 27,940,922 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Attala, MS. Big Horn, MT. Floyd, KY. Perry, KY. Marengo, AL. Butler, KY. Estill, KY. Clay, KY. And Letcher, KY. There have been 931,505 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island at 80.1%, Vermont at 79.9%, and Maine at 78.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.9%, Wyoming at 50.3%, and Mississippi at 50.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.5%.Globally, cases were down 35% and deaths down 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 70,345,679 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Germany 227,613. Russia 180,622. Brazil 129,266. The United States 103,377. And South Korea 93,127. There have been 5,861,456 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 17th, 2022.Encouraging signs all over the world. Germany announced plans to end most of the country's restrictions by March 20. They believe infections have reached their peak so there’s a three-step plan that will roll the restrictions back. In Switzerland, they will end health checks for incoming travelers and the need for COVID passes and masks to enter places like shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. And in Austria they’ll end most restrictions March 5, though masks will still be required in some places.In other places, things aren’t going as well. Despite a “zero-COVID” policy, Hong Kong continues to get hit hard, stressing hospitals. China's leader said it was Hong Kong’s local government's "overriding task" to get control of the situation, and he reminded Hong Kong’s Chief Executive Chinese Communist Party leaders have a high level of concern.It doesn’t appear to be causing significant damage, but it sure is spreading. The World Health Organization says the Omicron sub-variant BA.2 accounted for 21.5% of all new Omicron cases worldwide in the first week of February. In the U.S., the prevalence of BA.2 has tripled from January 29 to February 5 but still makes up a very small proportion of new cases.The CDC lowered its travel warning for cruise ships from its highest level where it’s been for seven weeks. At the beginning of that time, the CDC said travelers should avoid cruises no matter what their vaccination status. They still recommend being fully vaccinated and wearing quality masks indoors and in crowded outdoor areas. Remember your kooky friend who said you should fight COVID with vitamin D? Maybe not that kooky. A study shows people who were deficient in vitamin D were 14 times more likely to have a severe or critical case of COVID. And mortality for deficient patients was 25.6% compared to 2.3% for those with sufficient vitamin D. In the United States, cases were down 68%, deaths are down 13%, and hospitalizations are down 38% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Mississippi, West Virginia, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Idaho. There are 28,011,618 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Attala, MS. Big Horn, MT. Floyd, KY. Perry, KY. Marengo, AL. Butler, KY. Estill, KY. Clay, KY. And Letcher, KY. There have been 928,490 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island at 80.1%, Vermont at 79.9%, and Maine at 78.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.9%, Wyoming at 50.3%, and Mississippi at 50.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.5%.Globally, cases were down 37% and deaths down 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 70,786,115 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Germany 234,886. Russia 179,284. Brazil 147,252. The United States 114,668. And France 98,735. There have been 5,849,513 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 16th, 2022.The head of the World Health Organization's Europe office said their attention is turning to growing rates of infection in Eastern Europe, where six countries — including Russia and Ukraine — have seen a doubling of cases over the last two weeks. The concern is that vaccination rates have lagged in Eastern Europe. In the United States, it doesn’t look like people are buying into the need for a booster. The pace of people getting booster shots has dropped to the lowest it’s ever been. Of the 64% of the US that’s fully vaccinated, only 28% have gone on to get a booster. People who got the one dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine are especially slow to get a second dose. Part of that may be because of the performance of the first rounds of vaccines. The CDC released data from a study showing the efficacy rate of mRNA vaccines waned after as soon as four months. However, it was quickly pointed out that the vaccines were key in reducing serious illness and death, and that the data only underscores the need for a booster shot. As health experts try to get kids vaccinated at younger and younger ages, how about unborn fetuses? Turns out if mom got a dose, then the baby did too. New research shows babies whose mothers were fully vaccinated with Moderna or Pfizer during pregnancy had a 61% lower risk of being hospitalized with COVID in their first six months of life.Whether the pandemic is over or not, the government spending machine clearly is not. The White House is telling Congress it needs $30 billion more dollars of taxpayer money to keep fighting COVID. Congress has already approved $5.8 trillion to battle the pandemic in a series of major bills across the last two administrations, and it’s estimated 90% of that money has been spent.In the United States, cases were down 66%, deaths are down 6%, and hospitalizations are down 36% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Mississippi, West Virginia, Arkansas, Virginia, and Delaware. There are 28,114,769 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Scott, TN. Unicoi, TN. Attala, MS. Big Horn, MT. Overton, TN. Perry, KY. Floyd, KY. McNairy, TN. And Cannon, TN. There have been 925,438 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island and Vermont at 79.9%, and Maine at 78%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.9%, Wyoming at 50.3%, and Mississippi at 50.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.4%.Globally, cases were down 32% and deaths up 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 71,379,697 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Germany 177,515. Russia 166,631. France 142,253. Brazil 123,827. And the United States 94,818. There have been 5,836,409 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 15th, 2022.New York City fired 1,430 workers who didn’t comply with the city's vaccine mandate. Hundreds more got the shots after being notified they were getting fired. Of the fired workers, about 64% worked for the education department. Hong Kong’s going to offer vaccines to kids as young as 3. Previously, the age limit was 5. Schools extended a suspension of in-class teaching for two weeks to March 6. Additionally, only vaccinated people will be allowed in shopping malls and supermarkets, and churches, hair salons and other businesses have been ordered to close. Hong Kong has fully vaccinated 73% of its eligible population, not including children.Deltacron. It’s real, but how dangerous is it? UK health officials confirmed they’re monitoring the combination of Delta and Omicron and think it evolved in a Brit who caught both variants at the same time. Originally, the combo was dismissed, but UK health officials see it as a legitimate threat.Heartburn is no fun, but a new study says if you’re on a heartburn medication, that could have helped ease COVID symptoms. Famotidine, the main ingredient in Pepcid, saw symptoms like breathing difficulties, abdominal pain, and changes to smell and taste resolve faster for those who were taking it. The lead in the study said it’s not an anti-viral drug, but it can prevent inflammation.In New Zealand, the latest weapon to harass vaccine mandate protesters is Barry Manilow. Hundreds descended on the parliament building so police blasted a 15-minute loop of some of the more upbeat Manilow songs like Copacabana. It wasn’t all Barry. They blasted the Macarena as well. The new tactic was tried when turning sprinklers on them didn’t work. They just dug trenches and made drainpipes.In the United States, cases were down 67%, deaths are down 3%, and hospitalizations are down 35% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Mississippi, Virginia, West Virginia, Kansas, and Arkansas. There are 28,381,019 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Scott, TN. Unicoi, TN. Overton, TN. Estill, KY. McNairy, TN. Cannon, TN. Fentress, TN. Perry, KY. And Macon, TN. There have been 922,474 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island at 79.9%, Vermont at 79.8%, with Maine at 78%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.9%, Wyoming at 50.3%, and Mississippi at 50.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.4%.Globally, cases were down 30% and deaths up 13% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 72,267,291 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Russia 180,456. Germany 127,449. Japan 80,234. The United States 79,155. And Turkey 76,632. There have been 5,825,680 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 14th, 2022.A study published in Nature Medicine found U.S. veterans who survived Covid were more likely to have suffered some type of cardiovascular problem within the next year. And that’s even if their infections were mild. That included a 52% greater likelihood of suffering a stroke, a 63% higher likelihood of a heart attack, a 72% higher likelihood of heart failure, and a 71% higher likelihood to have a-fib. A bill in California would mandate that all businesses make not just their employees, but also all their independent contractors get vaccinated. New employees would have to get at least one dose before they can start work and the second within 45 days of being on the job. The mandate would stay in place unless the CDC comes out and says COVID vaccinations aren’t needed anymore.The FDA has granted emergency use authorization for bebtelovimab, a new monoclonal antibody designed to reduce risk of hospitalization and death from COVID. Just weeks ago, the FDA halted use of previously authorized antibody treatments when research revealed them to be ineffective against Omicron. Only those over 12 with mild to moderate symptoms in the early stages of COVID can get the new treatment.A plan to expand Covid vaccinations to all kids five to 11 in the UK has been delayed because the government and the vaccinations watchdog can’t seem to agree on it. A decision is expected to be made February 21. Word has it the recommendation would expand vaccinations to children of that age group, but by way of a “non-urgent” offer to parents since the health risks to those kids is small.If you’re unvaccinated and don’t feel welcome anywhere, we have a place for you. It’s Paraguay! People have created a colony in its poorest region as a refuge from "socialist trends worldwide,” which apparently include mandatory vaccinations. It was actually founded back in 2016 but is enjoying quite the influx of joiners. In the United States, cases were down 67%, deaths are down 3%, and hospitalizations are down 34% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Mississippi, Virginia, West Virginia, Kansas, and Arkansas. There are 28,545,272 active cases in the United States.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Scott, TN. Unicoi, TN. Overton, TN. Estill, KY. McNairy, TN. Cannon, TN. Fentress, TN. Perry, KY. And Macon, TN. There have been 919,640 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island and Vermont are tied at 79.8%, with Maine at 78%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.8%, Wyoming at 50.3%, and Mississippi at 50.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.4%.Globally, cases were down 31% and deaths up 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 73,613,802 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Russia 197,949. Germany 108,216. France 86,562. Turkey 73,787. And Japan 67,506. There have been 5,815,219 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If the pandemic is ending, it doesn’t feel much like it in Russia. The country reported nearly 200,000 new cases in yet another record. Of course, vaccination rates there are low, Omicron is prevalent, and there aren’t that many restrictions. The bright side, while infections have soared, daily fatalities in the last few weeks have remained steady.The World Health Organization says Africa is moving to the “control phase” of the pandemic and increased vaccination rates should help the continent live with the disease. Of course, only 11% of Africa's adult population has been vaccinated due partially to inequities in vaccine access. The World Bank estimates the pandemic pushed up to 40 million people into extreme poverty in Africa.We’ve heard about the first responders, but what about the last responders? We’re talking about mental health professionals. Experts who are now swamped with people seeking help, say many are struggling with the emotional and societal changes we’ve been through and they’re having trouble adapting to a “new normal.” Words that frequently come up are “disconnected,” “lost,” and “malaise.”  Chinese scientists say they have developed a new coronavirus test that’s as accurate as a PCR test and gives results within four minutes. They usually take several hours. A sensor uses microelectronics to analyze genetic material from swabs, making it fast, easy, sensitive, and portable. The researchers said their results were a perfect match with PCR tests. All 33 cases were accurately detected, and none of the 54 people in the negative group got false positives.Sure you have your own problems but we know you’re worried about the ability for millionaire celebrities to celebrate themselves conveniently. The 2022 Academy Awards will not be requiring proof of vaccination for attendees. They will be asked to show a negative PCR or rapid test on the day of the ceremony, maybe even on the red carpet.In the United States, cases were down 63%, deaths are up 4%, and hospitalizations are down 30% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Virginia, Mississippi, Ohio, Kansas, and South Carolina. There are 28,677,716 active cases in the United States.The areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Montana and Oregon 5%. And Idaho 1%. The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Scott, TN. Unicoi, TN. Wayne, MS. Monterey, CA. Estill, KY. Overton, TN. Tippah, MS. Perry, KY. And Imperial, CA.There have been 915,431 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Rhode Island and Vermont are now tied at 79.7%, with Maine at 77.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.8%, Wyoming at 50%, and Mississippi at 50.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.2%.Globally, cases were down 28% and deaths up 20% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 74,441,569 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Germany 247,128. Russia 197,076. The United States 179,237. Brazil 165,359. And France 153,025. There have been 5,788,579 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If this guy finally says it, you know it must be true. Dr. Anthony Fauci said the U.S. is exiting the “full-blown” pandemic phase of the COVID crisis. He said things that limit COVID-19, including vaccinations, medical treatments, and prior infection, will alter the situation significantly in the coming months. He also very uncharacteristically said decisions will increasingly be made at local levels and there’ll be more people making their own decisions on how they want to deal with the virus.The CDC says if the Pfizer vaccine gets emergency use authorization for children 6 months to 5 years old, the plan is to initially roll out about 10 million doses, but they’ve secured enough for all 18 million kids in this age group. It’s specially formulated for them. What remains to be seen is the willingness of parents to get their kids of that age vaccinated. So far, the uptake on vaccinations for kids age 5 to 12 has been modest. The South African doctor who discovered the Omicron strain isn’t impressed with how she was treated. She says she was pressured into describing the variant as more dangerous than it really is. Right out of the gate, she reported mild symptoms for those in her country. But she says she was told by scientists and politicians all over the world that her description was wrong, and she should stop using the word mild. She’s not alone. A Pew Research study shows Americans are increasingly critical of how elected and public health officials handled the pandemic. 60% now say they’ve felt confused by the inconsistent recommendations. 49% say the CDC is doing a fair or poor job. And positive ratings of public health officials like Anthony Fauci have plunged 10 points since August. 60% think the President has done a fair or poor job on COVID. In the United States, cases were down 63%, deaths are up 4%, and hospitalizations are down 29% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Virginia, Mississippi, Ohio, Kansas, and South Carolina. There are 28,671,117 active cases in the United States.The areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Montana and Oregon 5%. West Virginia 2%. And Idaho 1%. The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Scott, TN. Unicoi, TN. Wayne, MS. Monterey, CA. Estill, KY. Overton, TN. Tippah, MS. Perry, KY. And Imperial, CA.There have been 912,208 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79.7%, Rhode Island at 79.6%, and Maine at 77.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.7%, Wyoming at 50%, and Mississippi at 50.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.2%.Globally, cases were down 26% and deaths up 23% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 74,155,482 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Germany 238,410. The United States 227,458. Brazil 183,533. Russia 183,103. And Turkey 108,563. There have been 5,775,363 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 9th, 2022. The World Health Organization expects the even more transmissible version of Omicron, BA.2, to increase in circulation around the world. What’s not clear is whether or not it can reinfect people who caught an earlier version of Omicron. The agency is currently tracking four different versions of Omicron. Most states in the U.S. have confirmed the presence of BA.2, though it’s circulating at a low level with 460 cases confirmed so far. It's been reported Johnson & Johnson shut down production in the only plant making usable batches of its vaccine late last year. It’s in the Dutch city of Lieden. The stoppage is temporary but should last a few months. It’s unclear why the company did it, but the New York Times reports the facility has turned its attention to making another vaccine for an unrelated virus. Turns out it can be done. The Air Force became the second military service to approve religious exemptions to the mandatory vaccine, granting requests from nine airmen to avoid the shots. Don’t get excited, that’s nine out of more than 6,400 requests. The Marines have granted three religious exemptions so far, while the Army and Navy haven’t approved a single one. 32 athletes at the Beijing Olympics are now in isolation facilities after testing positive. They’ve got to stay there for seven days. Organizers acknowledge isolation is difficult and there is the possibility they’ll miss competitions after years of training. So far, there have been 393 positive cases inside the Olympic bubble.  If you lay awake at night worrying if Pfizer is making enough money, let us put your mind at ease. It will generate record-high revenue in 2022, expecting to sell $32 billion worth of its COVID shots and $22 billion worth of its COVID pill. And that’s just for those two products. And yet, the company missed its fourth quarter revenue target, sending the stock down more than 5.7%. In the United States, cases were down 62%, deaths are up 25%, and hospitalizations are down 27% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Mississippi, Virginia, Ohio, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania.  There are 28,795,422 active cases in the United States. The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Wyoming 15%. Montana 13%. Idaho and West Virginia 11%. And Oregon 8%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Whitman, WA. Adair, OK. Craig, OK. Tippah, MS. Wayne, MS. Bethel Census Area, AK. Okmulgee, OK. Cherokee, OK. And Scott, TN.  There have been 908,816 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79.6%, Rhode Island at 79.4%, and Maine at 77.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.7%, Wyoming at 50%, and Mississippi at 50.3%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.1%. Globally, cases were down 22% and deaths up 23% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25.  There are 73,928,908 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Germany 212,724. The United States 179,169. Brazil 171,483. Russia 165,643. And Turkey 111,096.  There have been 5,762,582 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 8th, 2022.A story of mixed metrics. Yes, the Omicron wave has receded significantly in the US over the past few weeks. But more people are dying every day than died during the peak of Delta last summer. 2,400 people have died every day over the past seven days even though cases are a third of what they were three weeks ago. As we’ve explained before, the reason is the sheer number of people infected with Omicron meeting the unvaccinated population. The CDC says unvaccinated adults have a 68-times-higher risk of dying from Covid than boosted adults.There are claims out on the always reliable Internet that in fact, most of the world is still unvaccinated. But data from the University of Oxford's Our World in Data project show more than 60% of the world’s population have gotten at least one dose. 52.1% are fully vaccinated. The UAE and Portugal are most vaccinated at more than 90%, while Chad, Haiti, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burundi have less than 1% of people fully vaccinated. The governors of four states announced plans to lift statewide mask requirements in schools by the end of February or March. Those states are Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, and Oregon. All indicated a need for acceptance that the virus is here to stay and there must be a path back to normalcy for kids.  A couple of California stories for you. The state is keeping its mask mandates for schools in place, but California is not extending its statewide indoor mask mandate. That means people who are vaccinated can show off their mouths starting February 15, the unvaccinated cannot. Los Angeles County, however, has its own stricter mask mandate in place that it will apparently keep in place no matter what the state does.Also in California, lawmakers passed legislation giving most workers up to two weeks of COVID supplemental paid sick leave. The idea is to fix it so infected people don’t have to come to work and put everyone else at risk. The policy allows workers at businesses of 26 or more employees to take paid time off not just to recover from COVID, but to care for a sick family member, go get vaccinated, recover from immunization side effects, or care for a child who can’t go to school because of closures or quarantines.In the United States, cases were down 57%, deaths are up 18%, and hospitalizations are down 24% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Mississippi, South Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, and Guam. There are 29,145,580 active cases in the United States.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Wyoming 25%. Montana and West Virginia 16%. And Idaho and Oregon 11%.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Whitman, WA. Adair, OK. Craig, OK. Okmulgee, OK. Cherokee, OK. Bethel Census Area, AK. Scott, TN. Mayes, OK. And Imperial, CA.There have been 905,542 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79.6%, Rhode Island at 79.4%, and Maine at 77.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.6%, Wyoming at 50%, and Mississippi at 50.3%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.1%.Globally, cases were down 13% and deaths up 34% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 74,687,082 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Russia 171,905. The United States 156,487. Germany 138,867. Turkey 96,514. And Japan... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 7th, 2022.The adapt as you learn process continues. The CDC is now considering new changes to vaccine guidance that’d lengthen how much time should pass between doses, and they’re doing this to lower the risk of heart inflammation for immunocompromised people. They generally don’t respond as well to vaccines, and they’re the only ones right now advised to get four vaccine shots. What’s happening with the pandemic in the US? One way to gauge is to see what’s going on in New York City. Over 15 days, they’ve seen a decline of more than 60% in infection rates and new cases. Citywide transmission is now on the verge of falling below “very high” levels. Even the number of unvaccinated residents getting COVID has fallen significantly in recent weeks. 43.6% of all fully vaccinated city residents have gotten boosted.But there’s another way to detect infection rates nationwide to see what’s going on and it’s the closest thing we have to involuntary mass testing. That, of course, is wastewater testing. And now there’s a new online portal where you can check to see how your city is doing. Actually, the map only tracks 232 sites, but you can still tell what areas are trending. For instance, lots of COVID-in-waste levels going up now are in Ohio. You should be able to find the site by searching CDC Covid wastewater surveillance. Whether or not China’s zero tolerance policy on COVID is the right move remains to be seen, but one thing is pretty certain, some Olympic athletes are having a miserable experience there. Those who test positive are forced to isolate. And team officials from Germany, Belgium, and Russia say their people are enduring poor to no internet connection, bad food, and no training equipment in the quarantine hotels set up by Chinese officials. One biathlon competitor said, "My stomach hurts, I'm very pale and I have huge black circles around my eyes. I cry every day.”Sadly, not everyone or everything will survive the pandemic. Among the casualties is the oldest pub in Britain, which has been open since 793 AD. The pub, called Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, tried everything to stay open. The owners and staff are said to be devastated and heartbroken. A statement read, “The past two years have been unprecedented for the hospitality industry and have defeated all of us who’ve been trying our hardest to ensure this pub could continue into the future."In the United States, cases were down 57%, deaths are up 18%, and hospitalizations are down 23% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Mississippi, South Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, and Guam. There are 29,093,003 active cases in the United States.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Wyoming 27%. Montana and West Virginia 17%. And Idaho and Oregon 12%.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Whitman, WA. Adair, OK. Craig, OK. Okmulgee, OK. Cherokee, OK. Bethel Census Area, AK. Scott, TN. Mayes, OK. And Imperial, CA.There have now been over 900,000 deaths in the U.S. recorded as COVID-related, at 902,624.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79.5%, Rhode Island at 79.4%, and Maine at 77.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.6%, Wyoming at 50%, and Mississippi at 50.3%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 64.1%.Globally, cases were down 14% and deaths up 32% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are now over 75 million active cases around the world... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 4th, 2022.Sweden has joined European nations removing coronavirus restrictions. The Prime Minister said, “It’s time to open Sweden again.” And apparently that will happen February 9. People can go to restaurants with no limits on occupancy or operating hours, and requirements for vaccine certificates and masks on public transportation will also be gone. Russia is considering loosening some restrictions too, even though they’re facing a record-breaking surge of infections.If you’re on Medicare Part B, you’ve got free COVID tests coming, which you’ll be able to get over the counter. Medicare will cover up to eight free tests every month, starting in early spring. That actually only now matches what private insurers have been required to provide to people on their plans, so the government is playing a bit of catchup. Again, people you may have been calling whack jobs for two years may have been right. Israeli scientists have gathered the most convincing evidence to date that upping levels of vitamin D does help protect COVID patients from serious illness or death. They say they can even predict how people will do if infected based just on their age and vitamin D levels. Vitamin D deficiency is endemic across the Middle East, including in Israel, where nearly four in five people are low on it.  The Olympics are putting the spotlight on China, which for two years has been trying to keep the spotlight off of it, at least when it comes to the origins of the novel coronavirus. A group of international scientists is again calling for a "comprehensive international investigation" into COVID’s origins. That’s 20 scientists from the U.S., U.K., Germany, New Zealand, France, Australia, India, and Japan. They want a new spirit of "openness and mutual trust" as the games commence.It'd be easy to make fun of the Mayor of Los Angeles, except we’ve all probably done what he did. Or at least thought about it. He posed for pictures at SoFi Stadium during the NFC Championship game without a mask. HIV-positive Magic Johnson is standing there with him. Naturally the criticism started flying and the Mayor’s response was that he was holding his breath, so there was zero risk. In the United States, cases were down 49%, deaths are up 35%, and hospitalizations are down 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Mississippi, Arizona, Ohio, Connecticut, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania. There are 28,915,847 active cases in the United States.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Alaska 47%. Wyoming 42%. Idaho 36%. And West Virginia and Montana 30%.The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Whitman, WA. Adair, OK. Franklin, WA. Craig, OK. Santa Cruz, AZ. Clay, KY. Okmulgee, OK. Taylor, FL. And Carbon, WY.There have been at least 896,557 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79.5%, Rhode Island at 79.1%, and Maine at 77.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.5%, Wyoming at 49.9%, and Mississippi at 50.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 63.9%.Globally, cases were up 2% and deaths up 40% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 74,925,987 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 286,050. France 274,352. The United States 255,994. Germany 240,218. And Russia 155,768. There have been... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 3rd, 2022.The U.S. Army will immediately start discharging soldiers who’ve refused to get the mandatory COVID vaccine. How many are possibly getting kicked out? 3,300 service members. The Army’s actually the last military service to outline its discharge policy. 3,000 soldiers have already been issued official written reprimands, which means they could be among the first to go.History will establish what we got right and wrong in the pandemic. And a new report out of Johns Hopkins says the lockdowns recommended and promoted so heavily by experts like Dr. Anthony Fauci, which imposed enormous costs on economies, finances, education, and mental health, weren’t really necessary. The verdict from the new meta-analysis of dozens of different studies is lockdowns should be rejected out of hand as a pandemic policy. Lockdowns in the U.S. and across Europe reduced COVID mortality by a mere 0.2% on average.Pfizer wants the FDA to authorize their vaccine for kids six months to five years old. But will parents get them vaccinated? Looking at what they’ve done with kids 5-11 says probably not. Only 30.5% of children 5-11 have gotten at least one dose and only 21.8% are fully vaccinated. A Kaiser poll recently found 52% of parents of kids that age are opposed to or unsure about vaccinating them, with 24% saying they “definitely won’t” vaccinate them.  France says it will start administering Pfizer’s coronavirus antiviral drug this week. That’s the first pill for treating COVID that’s been approved in the EU. And why not? France is still reporting among the world's highest per-capita daily infections. The drug, Paxlovid, will be available in pharmacies starting Friday. How hard is it to get teachers back in the classroom? So hard that in New Mexico, 78 members of the National Guard have been called in to serve as substitutes. They get a few hours of training and a background check before being assigned. Most of them say they don’t feel prepared, but they are at least willing to show up. And they show up in uniform so perhaps conduct has improved a little. In the United States, cases were down 44%, deaths are up 39%, and hospitalizations are down 14% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Arizona, Mississippi, Ohio, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania. There are 28,852,070 active cases in the United States.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Alaska 57%. Wyoming 52%. Idaho 41%. Montana 36%. And West Virginia 32%. The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Franklin, WA. Pontotoc, OK. Murray, OK. Whitman, WA. Santa Cruz, AZ. Johnson, IL. Clay, KY. Mercer, KY. And Benton, WA.There have been at least 894,211 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79.4%, Rhode Island at 79.1%, and Maine at 77.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.5%, Wyoming at 49.9%, and Mississippi at 50.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 63.8%.Globally, cases were down 1% and deaths up 36% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are 74,214,657 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: France 315,363. The United States 302,177. Germany 223,322. Brazil 188,552. And India 164,593. There have been 5,699,331 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 2nd, 2022.In Pfizer’s mind, there is no such thing as too young. It’s asked the FDA to expand the use of their vaccine to most kids under 5 years old. Data’s being submitted on a rolling basis to fast-track approval of what will eventually be a three-dose vaccine for kids six months through 4 years old. Children are at much lower risk of developing severe illness from Covid, but their hospitalizations have increased during the recent surge.The march to normalcy continues. Denmark scrapped most pandemic restrictions and no longer considers COVID “a socially critical disease.” There’s not a heavy burden on the health system and Denmark has a high vaccination rate. Norway is easing most measures. Limits on guests at private gatherings, a curb on alcohol service in bars and restaurants, and testing at the border have all been removed. And South Africa announced sweeping changes to many of the remaining regulations. Pretty much anyone without symptoms can live life as normal. Just checking in to see how people feel, a recent Monmouth poll asked if people agree with the statement “It’s time we accept Covid is here to stay, and we need to get on with our lives.” 70% agreed with that while 28% disagreed. Republicans and Independents felt that way at 89% and 71% respectively. But Democrats aren’t so sure. 51% of them disagreed with the statement. China might be hosting the COVID games instead of the Olympic Games. More and more athletes and team officials have tested positive. Since January 23, 200 tested positive, with a positive test rate of 2.9% for athletes and team officials. Everybody testing positive is placed in isolation, with Olympic officials monitoring symptoms, test results and contact tracing.Sometimes the best of intentions just doesn’t work out. The remote Pacific area of Kiribati closed its borders right at the start of the pandemic, keeping the virus away for nearly two full years. This month, it opened back up, allowing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to bring home 54 of the island nation’s citizens. They were all tested three times in nearby Fiji, and put in quarantine with additional testing when they got home. More than half tested positive and now the island is infected. 36 cases ballooned into 181 by Friday.In the United States, cases were down 42%, deaths are up 30%, and hospitalizations are down 11% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Ohio, Indiana, Arizona, Pennsylvania, and New Mexico. There are 28,955,249 active cases in the United States.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Alaska 63%. Wyoming 56%. Idaho 43%. Montana 40%. And Oregon 35%. The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Franklin, WA. Pontotoc, OK. Santa Cruz, AZ. Murray, OK. Whitman, WA. Mercer, KY. Muhlenberg, KY. Hopkins, KY. And Madison, ID.There have been at least 890,528 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79.4%, Rhode Island at 79%, and Maine at 77.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.5%, Wyoming at 49.8%, and Mississippi at 50%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 63.8%.Globally, cases were up 4% and deaths up 32% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are now over 74 million active cases around the world, at 74,587,209.The five countries with the most new cases: France 416,896. The United States 264,693.... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for February 1st, 2022.The FDA granted full approval to Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine, a shot that's already been given to tens of millions of Americans since its emergency authorization over a year ago. This means the FDA has completed the same rigorous, time-consuming review as dozens of other long-established vaccines. Theoretically, this means those who aren’t taking the vaccine because it’s too early and hasn’t been properly vetted, have one less argument to make. Tokyo has launched a mass booster shot drive at a temporary center run by the military to counter surging infections. Japan had only provided boosters to 2.7% of the population even though demand is intense. Reservation slots were filled within 9 minutes. The center will boost about 720 people a day.So far, the BA.2 subvariant of Omicron is nothing to panic about. But it does look like it’s substantially more transmissible than the first Omicron, and we’ve already seen how transmissible that has been. In South Africa, which first reported the original, BA.2 levels are increasing but overall infections are decreasing. What experts do say is BA.2 might prolong the Omicron wave in some places.New Orleans is set to become the nation's first major school district to mandate COVID vaccinations for kids 5 and up. But it’s not much of a mandate. State regulations will allow parents to easily opt out. No student is going to get kicked out and waivers are easy to get.  If Omicron is so much less severe, why are so many people still dying? This week, Australia suffered its deadliest day of the pandemic so far, nearly 100 dead. In the US, Omicron is claiming around 2,200 lives a day – higher than the Delta variant. The reason is deaths lag behind surges in case numbers. And since Omicron is spreading faster and infecting far more people, more of the unvaccinated and at risk have been infected, and the outcome for them is not always so good.In the United States, cases were down 35%, deaths are up 28%, and hospitalizations are down 8% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Ohio, Connecticut, Indiana, Arizona, and Pennsylvania. There are now over 29 million active cases in the United States, at 29,069,889.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Alaska 69%. Wyoming 66%. Idaho 55%. Montana 52%. And Arkansas 39%. The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Whitman, WA. Franklin, WA. Pontotoc, OK. Crawford, IL. Murray, OK. Randolph, IL. Hopkins, KY. Kings, CA. And Morgan, KY. There have been at least 886,668 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79.4%, Rhode Island at 78.9%, and Maine at 77.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.4%, Wyoming at 49.8%, and Mississippi at 50%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 63.8%.Globally, cases were up 12% and deaths up 30% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are now 73,158,005 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 274,266. India 164,271. Russia 124,070. Germany 119,696. And Brazil 102,616. There have been 5,672,129 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 31st, 2022.It’s just one city, but it’s a big one. The number of new cases in New York has fallen by more than half in a week according to the Governor’s office. The statewide positivity rate dropped to 5.73% Friday. Hospitalizations dropped from over 10,000 a week ago to 7,675 Friday.Russia's in the news a lot these days, but not for COVID. Regardless, their daily count of new infections surged to more than 121,000 yesterday. That’s an eightfold increase from the beginning of the month. The number of new infections over the past 24 hours was at an all-time high. And Russia’s total fatality count is by far the largest in Europe.A statement out of the Emergency Committee of the World Health Organization has modified its stand that bans on international travel are effective. Now they don’t think they provide any added value and only contribute to countries’ economic and social stress. It recommends not requiring proof of vaccination for international travel, if for no other reason due to the inequitable distribution of vaccines. The CDC, however, continues to be blind to the failure of travel bans and released yet more countries they warn Americans not to travel to. The list includes such popular destinations as Jamaica, St. Barts, St. Martin, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Fiji, Peru, and the UAE. The US has far more new cases per capita than many of these countries, which challenges the logic of the guidance, yet it is consistent with a hyperfocus on shutting down the travel and hospitality industry. Time for the “just don’t do this” story of the week. Owners of a Washington state bar held a “catch the virus” promotion. Employees quit, bands cancelled, and bar then tried to say it was all just a bad joke. Regardless, there were threats to burn down the pirate-themed bar, oddly in keeping with the theme, so one employee was held responsible and has been fired. In the United States, cases were down 33%, deaths are up 29%, and hospitalizations are down 5% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Ohio, Arizona, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Indiana. There are 28,732,901 active cases in the United States.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Alaska 76%. Wyoming 74%. Montana 67%. Idaho 55%. And Arkansas 44%. The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Whitman, WA. Franklin, WA. Pontotoc, OK. Santa Cruz, AZ. Crawford, IL. Murray, OK. Randolph, IL. Hopkins, KY. And Kings, CA.There have been at least 884,260 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79.3%, Rhode Island at 78.9%, and Maine at 77.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.4%, Wyoming at 49.8%, and Mississippi at 50%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 63.6%.Globally, cases were up 13% and deaths up 29% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are now over 73 million active cases around the world, at 73,081,557.The five countries with the most new cases: France 249,448. India 173,162. Russia 121,228. Germany 109,029. And Italy 104,065. There have been 5,662,721 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 28th, 2022.The European Medicines Agency has recommended Pfizer's coronavirus antiviral drug be authorized for use in the European Union. That’s the first time the agency’s recommended a pill for COVID. They said approving Paxlovid could help the infected avoid more serious disease and hospitalization. The drug’s been cleared in the U.S. and Britain, but the problem is supplies are extremely limited.School districts continue to struggle with what the proper policies should be. Orange County Public Schools in Florida have made it clear to parents who worry about their child being exposed to COVID and want to keep them home, that it will no longer allow excused absences for COVID concerns. The district said managing assignments for large numbers of absent students is a strain on the teachers. It’s brought up a question of medical ethics. A Boston hospital is defending itself after a man's family says he was denied a new, much needed heart for not getting vaccinated. The 31-year-old father of two has atrial fibrillation, which has also been cited as a vaccine side effect, thus his concern. There are more than 100,000 candidates on waitlists for organ transplants and about half on waiting lists won’t get an organ within five years.Did you get your free at home rapid tests yet? If you did, here’s some tips to make sure they’re accurate. You can’t expose them to extreme hot or cold temperatures. You have to read and follow the instructions, because they were developed for use in medical settings by trained personnel. And you have to read the results at just the right time. Waiting too soon could give you a false-negative. Waiting too late could give you a false-positive. And lastly, don’t believe them. If you tested negative but you’re feeling sicker than you ever have, seek medical attention.  Does the public think the pandemic is over? An Associated Press poll shows only 15% will consider it over only when COVID is largely eliminated. 83% think it’s over when it’s mostly a mild illness. 59% think it’s essential they personally be vaccinated to safely participate in public activities. But only 37% of parents think it’s essential their kids are vaccinated before they return to normal. And only 47% of Americans think it’s essential they get a booster.In the United States, cases were down 21%, deaths are up 34%, and hospitalizations are up 5% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Ohio, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Illinois. There are now over 28 million active cases in the United States, at 28,178,981.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Montana 97%. Wyoming 90%. Alaska 70%. Alabama 62%. And Oregon 54%. The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Whitman, WA. Franklin, WA. Pontotoc, OK. Crawford, IL. Maverick, TX. Wyoming, WV. Colbert, AL. Lanier, GA. And Uvalde, TX. There have been at least 878,421 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79.2%, Rhode Island at 78.6%, and Maine at 77.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.3%, Wyoming at 49.7%, and Mississippi at 49.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 63.5%.Globally, cases were up 16% and deaths up 25% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 25. There are now over 71 million active cases around the world, at 71,437,312.The five countries with the most new cases: The... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 27th, 2022.The World Health Organization said there were 21 million new cases last week and that’s the highest weekly number of the entire pandemic. However, despite that, the number of deaths was mostly unchanged. It also said the rate of increase appears to be slowing, with only half of regions reporting an increase. The biggest increase was seen in the Middle East. The restrictions have begun to fall away. Starting today in England, face coverings are no longer required anywhere in the country and a legal requirement for COVID passes to get into public venues has been scrapped. Austria will end its lockdown for unvaccinated residents Monday, one day before its vaccine mandate takes effect. And Denmark will no longer categorize COVID as a "socially critical disease" starting February 1.Yesterday we told you about Pfizer and BioNTech starting a clinical trial to evaluate a new vaccine specific to Omicron. Today it’s Moderna. Their study will enroll about 600 people who will get a dose of the experimental Omicron-matched version.Omicron doesn’t seem to care if you’ve had a case of COVID before or not. A new study out of England has found around two thirds of Omicron cases have been reinfections. It was thought a prior infection might offer some protection, but it looks like that’s not the case with Omicron. U.K. health officials estimate the risk of reinfection with Omicron is 5.4x greater than it is with Delta.Americans know what they’re supposed to do, they just don’t do it. A new Harris poll shows more Americans do believe N95 and KN95 masks are more effective against COVID than surgical or cloth masks. But they aren’t wearing them. The White House is rolling out 400 million free N95 masks, hoping to change that. Only 29% wear the higher-grade masks.In the United States, cases were down 14%, deaths are up 35%, and hospitalizations are up 9% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Ohio, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. There are 27,856,405 active cases in the United States.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Montana 101%. Alaska 88%. Wyoming 85%. Alabama 68%. And Idaho 57%. The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Uvalde, TX. Nome Census Area, AK. Crawford, IL. Maverick, TX. Douglas, IL. Wyoming, WV. Colbert (KAHL-bert), AL. Santa Cruz, AZ. Newberry, SC. And Dimmit, TX. There have been at least 876,060 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79.2%, Rhode Island at 78.5%, and Maine at 77.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.2%, Wyoming at 49.6%, and Mississippi at 49.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 63.5%.Globally, cases were up 30% and deaths up 27% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since January 17. There are now over 69 million active cases around the world, at 69,915,639.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 533,313. France 428,008. India 284,469. Brazil 219,878. And Germany 188,759. There have been 5,625,803 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 26th, 2022.The U.S. administration has thrown in the towel, withdrawing its rule requiring workers at big companies get vaccinated or face regular testing. The rule would have impacted more than 80 million U.S. workers and was to go into effect January 4. The Supreme Court halted the plan saying the Occupational Safety and Health Administration overstepped its authority.The battle over facemasks in schools rages on in New York. An appeals judge restored the mask mandate one day after a judge in a lower court ruled the state lacked the constitutional authority to order people to wear face coverings. The governor's office is appealing the decision.Pfizer and BioNTech have started a clinical trial to evaluate a new vaccine specific to Omicron. Current vaccines protect against serious illness and death, but Omicron has had no problem breaking through the vaccines to spread itself. The study will include as many as 1,420 participants.Whether or not they work or add extra protection, most health officials say they do, America isn’t so hot on getting booster shots. The CDC says only 40% of fully vaccinated Americans have gotten a booster. And the average number of booster shots given per day has plunged from 1 million in early December to about 490,000 as of last week. Some analysts blame confusion amongst a sea of changing recommendations and guidance.If you watch the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games from your couch, you’ll be as close to the action as the sports commentators you’re listening to. NBC Sports isn’t sending any of its announcing teams to China. They’ll be calling the action from Stamford, CT. In the United States, cases were down 14%, deaths are up 35%, and hospitalizations are up 9% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Ohio, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. There are 27,434,325 active cases in the United States.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Montana 98%. Alaska 90%. Wyoming 87%. Alabama 67%. And Arkansas and Oregon 56%. The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Uvalde, TX. Nome Census Area, AK. Crawford, IL. Maverick, TX. Douglas, IL. Wyoming, WV. Colbert, AL. Santa Cruz, AZ. Newberry, SC. And Dimmit, TX. There have been at least 871,937 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79.1%, Rhode Island at 78.4%, and Maine at 77.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.2%, Wyoming at 49.6%, and Mississippi at 49.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 63.4%.Globally, cases were up 26% and deaths up 24% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since January 17. There are now over 68 million active cases around the world, at 68,965,937.The five countries with the most new cases: France 501,635. The United States 443,072. India 283,540. Brazil 199,126. And Italy 186,740. There have been 5,614,043 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 25th, 2022.The head of the World Health Organization says it’s a mistake to think Omicron is the last variant that will emerge. And as sorta proof, a sub-lineage of Omicron, BA.2, is under formal investigation by the UK Health Security Agency. 426 cases in the UK so far, and it’s been spotted in the United States. It’s called “stealth Omicron” because it can’t be distinguished from other variants using PCR tests. So far, they feel current vaccinations work well against it. If you’re wondering how often you need to clean the house, and yourself, Japanese scientists have found Omicron can survive longer than earlier strains on plastic surfaces and human skin. They say Omicron has a high "environmental stability" and that’s what has helped it replace Delta as the dominant variant. It lasts about eight days on plastic, and 21.1 hours on skin.The FDA is revoking emergency use status for COVID antibody drugs from Regeneron and Eli Lilly. The agency says the two don't work against Omicron. The drugs were bought by the federal government and have been administered to millions of Americans. Alternate therapies from Pfizer, Merck, and GlaxoSmithKline are still okay but are in short supply.We will continue using the term here in our report, but the CDC is trying to pivot the language from being “fully vaccinated” to being “up to date” with vaccination against COVID. Being up to date means you’ve gotten all the recommended shots at the intervals recommended. Which would make you fully vaccinated. But if it’s time to have a booster and you haven’t gotten it, you are not up to date, with no apparent repercussions for that yet.  The damage done by COVID goes well beyond matters of health, both physical and mental. High school graduation rates dipped in at least 20 states after the first full school year that was disrupted by the pandemic. That would end nearly two decades of nationwide progress toward getting more students graduated. Some states loosened standards, but the rate dropped anyway.In the United States, cases were up 2%, deaths are up 39%, and hospitalizations are up 18% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Ohio, Alaska, New York, Connecticut, and Tennessee. There are now over 27 million active cases in the United States, at 27,238,138.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Alaska and Montana 93%. Wyoming 83%. Alabama 81%. And the U.S. Virgin Islands 79%. The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Waukesha, WI. Dane, WI. Uvalde, TX. Nome Census Area, AK. Maverick, TX. Santa Cruz, AZ. Dimmit, TX. Randolph, IL. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. And Wyoming, WV. There have been at least 868,494 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79.1%, Rhode Island at 78.4%, and Maine at 77.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49.2%, Wyoming at 49.6%, and Mississippi at 49.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 63.4%.Globally, cases were up 34% and deaths up 23% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since January 17. There are now over 67 million active cases around the world, at 67,479,089.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 465,154. India 255,874. France 108,481. Spain 101,810. And Germany 90,962. There have been 5,603,837 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 24th, 2022.So with things winding down for the moment, just how many more boosters are we going to need? The CEO of Pfizer says a once a year shot should eventually do the trick, and that would, for any number of reasons, be preferable to a booster shot needed every four months. He said Pfizer could be ready to file for approval of a redesigned vaccine to fight Omicron, and mass produce it, as soon as March.But in Israel, they’re a fan of boosters. Their Health Ministry said a fourth dose given to people over 60 made them 3x more resistant to serious illness than triple-vaccinated people in the same age group. In fact, Israel’s green pass is no longer considered a viable indicator of protection because it only shows three shots. Students in the Los Angeles Unified School District were already required to stay masked throughout the school day but now many parents are being told, “your kid’s mask isn’t good enough.” Students are now prohibited from wearing cloth masks. They must wear "well-fitting, non-cloth masks with a nose wire" both indoors and outdoors. You’ve heard people say it. “Everybody’s just gonna have to get it.” Well, if that’s true, how close are we to every American having had COVID? Turns out not even a little bit close. Only one in five have been infected since the pandemic began. That number is likely much higher because of bad data and unreported cases, but it’d still be a long way from “everybody got it.”You’re probably going to love me after I tell you this. New research shows red wine could help make you more resistant to Covid. Apparently, those who drink more than five glasses a week had a 17% lower risk. White wine drinkers who have one to four glasses a week had an 8% lower risk. Sorry beer drinkers, you have an almost 28% higher chance of getting Covid, no matter how much you drink.In the United States, cases were up 2%, deaths are up 39%, and hospitalizations are up 19% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Ohio, Alaska, New York, Connecticut, and Tennessee. There are now over 26 million active cases in the United States, at 26,671,065.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Montana 91%. Alaska 86%. Wyoming 82%. Alabama 81%. And the U.S. Virgin Islands 78%. The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Waukesha, WI. Dane, WI. Uvalde, TX. Nome Census Area, AK. Maverick, TX. Santa Cruz, AZ. Dimmit, TX. Randolph, IL. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. And Wyoming, WV. There have been at least 866,540 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 79%, Rhode Island at 78.3%, and Maine at 77.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 49%, Wyoming at 49.6%, and Mississippi at 49.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 63.2%.Globally, cases were up 32% and deaths up 21% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since January 17. There are now over 66 million active cases around the world, at 66,958,038.The five countries with the most new cases: India 306,064. France 301,614. The United States 197,374. Italy 138,860. And Brazil 84,230. There have been 5,595,967 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 21st, 2022.Spain is planning a different approach to future surges of infection. It won’t be treated as an emergency, it’ll be seen as an illness that’s here to stay. Portugal and Britain are taking similar steps. “Learning to live with the vaccine” used to be a philosophy attacked as anti-science and irresponsible government, but the tune is changing. The World Health Organization actually has no criteria for declaring COVID an endemic disease.Here’s another thing that used to be attacked with regularity that now people are seeing differently, the idea of immunity of natural infection. California and New York health officials say those who were infected were better protected against the Delta variant than those who were vaccinated alone. The results do not apply to Omicron and the advice is still to get fully vaccinated. After two months, attempts in the U.S. to get children age 5-11 vaccinated hasn’t been going well. The number of first doses remains far below its early peak. There was a slight uptick in December, but then the number dropped again. Only 18.8% of kids in that age group are fully vaccinated.With hospitals packed and stressed, when should you go there and when should you not add to the problem? Health experts say if you just have a cough, sore throat, fever, muscle aches — and you can keep fluids down and breathe okay, stay home, and treat it as you would a bad cold. If you’re short of breath during exertion, have severe chest pain or swelling of a limb, head to the ER. They add it’s very handy to have a fingertip pulse oximeter at home so you can check your blood oxygen levels.The virus is horrible, but we continue to be our own worst enemy. An American Airlines flight took off from Miami, headed for London. But a woman in her 40’s refused to wear a mask as required. The airline wasn’t kidding about that rule, so it turned around and was back on the ground in Miami 90 minutes later. 128 other passengers paid the price for the woman’s behavior, and now she’s on the airline’s no-fly list. In the United States, cases were up 29%, deaths are up 48%, and hospitalizations are up 42% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Alaska, Michigan, Tennessee, New York, and Maryland. There are now 25,613,160 active cases in the United States.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Alabama 114%. Puerto Rico 111%. California 101%. The U.S. Virgin Islands 100%. And Mississippi 94%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: West Feliciana, LA. Waukesha, WI. Uvalde, TX. Newberry, SC. Dane, WI. Teton, WY. Douglas, IL. Brown, WI. Tom Green, TX. And Kodiak Island Borough, AK.There have been at least 860,146 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 78.9%, Rhode Island at 78.1%, and Maine at 77%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 48.5%, Alabama at 48.9%, and Mississippi at 49.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 63.1%.Globally, cases were up 55% and deaths up 20% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending flat since January 17. There are now over 61 million active cases around the world, at 61,143,321.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 692,320. France 425,183. India 344,859. Italy 188,797. And Brazil 168,060. There have been 5,573,134 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 20th, 2022.Now you’ll start to hear stories about the quest to return to normalcy. In the U.K., masks will no longer be mandatory in public places and COVID passports won’t be required for large events. Why? They’re seeing infections level off. Scientists there believe the Omicron surge “has now peaked nationally.” The Prime Minister also said hospital admissions and patients in ICU are stabilizing or falling.Starbucks is no longer requiring its U.S. workers to be vaccinated. That reverses a plan it announced just earlier this month. They said they’re doing it because of the Supreme Court ruling rejecting the White House’s plan to require vaccines or regular COVID testing at companies with more than 100 workers. General Electric also suspended its vaccine mandate last week.New York City's surge of cases looks like it’s falling as fast as it rose. After new cases increased 26-fold in one month, they’ve now fallen 57% over the last week according to ABC News. Hospitalizations are declining, and the number of wastewater samples that spotted the virus have also plunged.More evidence that booster shots probably don’t do much in the way of stopping transmission. A study of breakthrough Omicron cases in South Africa, where the variant emerged early on, demonstrated Omicron’s ability to evade immunity generated by even the most powerful vaccine boosters. Researchers still say the vaccines protect against severe illness, but that it might not be a good idea to rely on vaccines alone in the pandemic fight.  Amidst all this good news, the CDC remains at virtual war with the travel and hospitality industry anyway. Tuesday, they advised against travel to 22 more nations and territories, including Israel, Australia, Egypt, Argentina, the Bahamas, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, Turks and Caicos, and Saint Lucia. In fact, there are now over 100 countries and territories total on their “Level 4” don’t-go-there list. In the United States, cases were up 38%, deaths are up 43%, and hospitalizations are up 47% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Tennessee, Maryland, Michigan, New York, and Indiana. There are now over 25 million active cases in the United States, at 25,035,097.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Puerto Rico 126%. Alabama 121%. California 110%. The U.S. Virgin Islands 103%. And Louisiana 102%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: West Feliciana, LA. Waukesha, WI. Newberry, SC. Dane, WI. Tom Green, TX. Teton, WY. Uvalde, TX. Milwaukee, WI. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. And Covington, MS.There have been at least 857,674 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 78.6%, Rhode Island at 77.9%, and Maine at 76.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 48.2%, Alabama at 48.4%, and Mississippi at 49.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 63%.Globally, cases were up 66% and deaths up 19% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 16. There are now over 60 million active cases around the world, at 60,920,589.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 710,928. France 436,167. India 315,158. Brazil 205,310. And Italy 192,320.  There have been 5,563,818 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 19th, 2022.The U.S. quietly launched its website for Americans to request free at-home COVID tests a day early. It’s COVIDTests.gov and the order form is run by the U.S. Postal Service. You can get four at-home tests per residential address. The White House said, “tests will typically ship within 7- 12 days of ordering” and they are anticipating a “bug or two.”The World Health Organization’s chief scientist says there is no evidence that healthy children and adolescents need booster doses of COVID vaccine. But that train has already left the station in many countries. Israel is boosting kids as young as 12, and the U.S. FDA has authorized third doses of Pfizer for kids 12 to 15. Last week Germany became the latest country to recommend that all children 12 to 17 get a booster. Hungary has done the same. If you felt awful after getting vaccinated, a new analysis says you may have been faking it. The study has concluded up to three-fourths of adverse events can be attributed to the opposite of the placebo effect. With placebos, people think they feel better even if they were given a sugar pill instead of a real drug. But this time, people who took a placebo thinking it was the real vaccine reported feeling negative side effects from it. Should you try to catch Omicron to get it over with? The director of the Vaccine Education Center at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia gives us five reasons not to. 1, It's not a bad cold. It's still a potentially life-threatening disease. 2, You could get long Covid. 3, You could stress the healthcare system. 4, the kid population is still fairly vulnerable, and you could infect them. And 5) It’s stupid to catch a disease on purpose. And yes, he says, so were chicken pox parties in the old days. Chinese-ruled Hong Kong ordered the killing of 2,000 hamsters yesterday after 11 of them tested positive. There is no evidence domestic animals can infect humans. People who bought hamsters after Dec. 22 are being ordered to hand over their pet for culling.In the United States, taking into account many states did not report statistics Monday, cases were up 62%, deaths are up 54%, and hospitalizations are up 54% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are New Mexico, Maryland, Indiana, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. There are now over 24 million active cases in the United States, at 24,488,337.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Puerto Rico 143%. Alabama 134%. The U.S. Virgin Islands 130%. And Louisiana and California 120%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: West Feliciana, LA. Waukesha, WI. Teton, WY. Dane, WI. Covington, MS. Tom Green, TX. Greensville, VA. Milwaukee, WI. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. And Yazoo, MS.There have been at least 853,951 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 78.5%, Rhode Island at 77.8%, and Maine at 76.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 48.2%, Alabama at 48.4%, and Mississippi at 49.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 62.8%.Globally, cases were up 81% and deaths up 18% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since January 16. There are now over 58 million active cases around the world, at 58,938,768.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 546,714. France 464,769. India 277,740. Italy 228,179. And Brazil 132,254. There have been 5,553,993 deaths reported as... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 18th, 2022. Brace yourself, here’s a story about how more vaccine shots may not always be the answer. An Israeli hospital’s preliminary research suggests a fourth dose of vaccine adds only limited defense against Omicron. That makes things a little tricky politically because Israel just started giving people over age 60 fourth shots.  The US Surgeon General says don’t get too enamored of the good news you’ve been hearing. He says the Omicron wave started later in some parts of the country, so we shouldn't be looking for a peak in those places, and the next few weeks will be tough. He says the problem is we’re running out of healthcare workforce and the crush of COVID patients is still expected to get substantially higher.  Even where there are still doctors on the job, the stress on the system means those doctors are starting to get worn out and make mistakes. That’s what’s happening in England. A survey shows 25% of doctors in the NHS are so tired that their ability to treat patients has become impaired. In at least seven cases, patients were actually harmed. Brace yourself again, an honest admission from a government bureaucrat. The Director of the CDC told the Wall Street Journal the messaging and communication around the pandemic should have been clearer. She said, "I think what I have not conveyed is the uncertainty in a lot of these situations."  Going to the Winter Olympics in Beijing? No you’re not. Tickets won’t be sold to the general public in response to the pandemic. However, if you’re a friend of Communist Chinese authorities, you might still have tickets distributed to you. But even then, you have to be a resident of China's mainland and in compliance with COVID countermeasures. In the United States, cases were up 98%, deaths are up 57%, and hospitalizations are up 61% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Indiana, New Mexico, Michigan, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.  There are 23,591,203 active cases in the United States. The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Puerto Rico 159%. The U.S. Virgin Islands 151%. Alabama 144%. Louisiana 141%. And Florida 129%.   The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: West Feliciana, LA. Pitkin, CO. Teton, WY. Greensville, VA. Covington, MS. Tom Green, TX. Uvalde, TX. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Rolette, ND. And Yazoo, MS. There have been at least 851,449 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 78.5%, Rhode Island at 77.8%, and Maine at 76.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 48.2%, Alabama at 48.4%, and Mississippi at 49.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 62.8%. Globally, cases were up 102% and deaths up 17% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are now over 56 million active cases around the world, at 56,773,810. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 389,553. India 222,579. Spain 110,489. Argentina 102,458. And France 102,144.  There have been 5,544,691 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 17th, 2022.The US Department of Health and Human Services extended the Covid public health emergency for another 90 days. This will allow many public health protections and financial aid programs to keep going at least another three months. And states have been promised 60 days’ notice prior to any expiration of the emergency status in the future. This is the eighth extension.France approved a law 215-58 that will ban unvaccinated citizens from all restaurants, sports arenas and other venues, essentially making them persona non grata. And that’s 9% of all French adults being reduced to second class status. Previously, the unvaccinated could get into establishments by showing a recent negative test, but no longer. There will also be increased penalties for fake passes.The White House plans to buy and give out 1 billion rapid tests. But did they check with manufacturers and distributors to see if that’s even possible? They say it is, and the manufacturers say they can do it, but tests have been hard for the public to find. Research from Health Catalysts Group says the US has an estimated capacity of only 260 million tests this month, which is why critics say adding 1 billion more to demand will only crush the pipeline.Speaking of hard-to-find tests, what do you do if your job requires that you get tested on a regular basis in order to show up, do your job and get paid? But you can’t find any? No one seems to have an answer for them, and the problem is hitting essential workers who can’t work from home – often people of color – particularly hard. The result is lost wages even though the worker may not even have COVID.Has the Army found a super-vaccine? There’s talk they’ve developed a universal COVID vaccine that could successfully combat all variants. They’ve been working on it at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research for a year. In December, the Army announced its pan-coronavirus vaccine had completed Phase 1 of human trials with positive results. As opposed to mRNA vaccines, this one does use part of the actual COVID virus, but a harmless part. It also has less restrictive storage and handling requirements than current vaccines. In the United States, cases were up 98% down from 159% Friday, deaths are up 57%, and hospitalizations are up 61% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Indiana, New Mexico, Michigan, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. There are now over 23 million active cases in the United States, at 23,031,325.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Puerto Rico 157%. The U.S. Virgin Islands 153%. Louisiana 142%. Alabama 140%. And Florida 131%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: West Feliciana, LA. Pitkin, CO. Teton, WY. Greensville, VA. Covington, MS. Tom Green, TX. Uvalde, TX. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Rolette, ND. And Yazoo, MS.There have been at least 850,605 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 78.5%, Rhode Island at 77.8%, and Maine at 76.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 48.2%, Alabama at 48.4%, and Mississippi at 49.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 62.8%.Globally, cases were up 98% and deaths up 16% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are now over 55 million active cases around the world, at 55,784,748.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 287,973. France 278,129. India 257,063. Italy... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 14th, 2022.The highest court in the land has ruled against the White House’s requirement that large businesses require employees to get a vaccine or test regularly and wear a mask on the job. And enforce all that. The good news for the White House is the court is allowing it to proceed with vaccine mandates for most healthcare workers. Looks like supply chain problems also apply to COVID drugs. Two brand-new pills anticipated to be an effective tool against the pandemic are in short supply. As such, they aren’t playing much of a role during this Omicron surge. Production is still being ramped up and the pills take five to eight months to manufacture. Doctors say they’re needed now, because two antibody drugs that were once the go-to treatments don’t work as well against Omicron.The U.S. President announced the government will double to 1 billion the rapid, at-home COVID-19 tests to be distributed courtesy of taxpayers, often called “free,” along with “high-quality masks.” Also, starting next week, 1,000 military medical personnel will deploy across the country to help overwhelmed medical facilities ease staff shortages.Speaking of the military, it’s getting smaller. The Army just relieved six active-duty commanders, including two battalion commanders, and issued 2,994 general officer written reprimands to soldiers for refusing to take the vaccine. They’re waiting on guidance now on kicking them out of the service. The Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines have so far granted zero religious exemptions. Like it or not, a national digital vaccine card is happening in America. The SMART Health Card is voluntary, for now, and has your information in a QR code. More states and companies have signed on and the card is widely available from more than 400 sources. The next step is getting more public places like venues, bars, restaurants, theaters, amusement parks, etc. to require the card so it soon becomes not that voluntary. In the United States, cases were up 159%, deaths are up 51%, and hospitalizations are up 82% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Indiana, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Maryland. There are now over 21 million active cases in the United States, at 21,455,773.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: The U.S. Virgin Islands 467%. Puerto Rico 293%, Louisiana 276%. Florida 241%. And Alabama 186%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Teton, WY. Miami-Dade, FL. Greensville, VA. Pitkin, CO. Summit, UT. Tom Green, TX. Providence, RI. Rolette, ND. New York City, NY. And Logan, IL.There have been at least 846,459 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 78.3%, Rhode Island at 77.5%, and Maine at 76.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 48%, Alabama at 48.2%, and Mississippi at 48.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 62.7%.Globally, cases were up 132% and deaths up 10% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are now over 51 million active cases around the world, at 51,329,047.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 806,493. France 305,322. India 253,496. Italy 184,615. And Spain 159,161. There have been 5,520,282 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 13th, 2022.A report says around 458 local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement officers died in the line of duty in 2021, an increase of 55% and the most since 1930. 301 of those were Covid-related, making that the leading cause of death. That was also true in 2020 when at least 182 officers died of the virus.You’ll notice that even as the vaccines open up to new, younger groups of people, the vaccination numbers in our daily report don’t seem to move very much. Authorities are starting to worry about alarmingly low vaccination rates in U.S. kids 5 to 11. As of Tuesday, just over 17% were fully vaccinated, more than two months after shots became available to that age group. More good news coming out of wastewater. This time it’s Boston’s. COVID samples from that city’s wastewater are trending sharply downward, suggesting the region is past the peak of the Omicron wave. The average number of coronavirus RNA copies per milliliter has dropped by over 40% in recent days. However, levels are still higher than levels found during previous surges.Remember the Delta variant? You should because it’s still very much around and doing the damage it’s always done. The Director of the CDC said most reported Covid deaths in the U.S. are still from Delta, not Omicron. Officials are monitoring deaths over the next several weeks to measure the impact of Omicron on mortality.People in the public eye are still learning that others are watching what they do throughout this pandemic. The U.K. Prime Minister apologized after admitting he attended a “bring your own booze” Downing Street garden party in May of 2020. He said he thought it was a work event at the time. Office employees were invited “to make the most of the lovely weather and have some socially distanced drinks in the garden” at a time when large outdoor gatherings were banned.In the United States, cases were up 159%, deaths are up 51%, and hospitalizations are up 79% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Indiana, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Maryland. There are now over 20 million active cases in the United States, at 20,672,722.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: The U.S. Virgin Islands 466%. Puerto Rico 286%, Louisiana 268%. Florida 235%. And Alabama 177%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Teton, WY. Miami-Dade, FL. Greensville, VA. Pitkin, CO. Summit, UT. Tom Green, TX. Providence, RI. Rolette, ND. New York City, NY. And Logan, IL.There have been at least 843,624 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 78.3%, Rhode Island at 77.3%, and Maine at 76.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 48%, Alabama at 48.1%, and Mississippi at 48.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 62.6%.Globally, cases were up 145% and deaths up 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are now over 49 million active cases around the world, at 49,193,972.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 814,494. France 361,719. India 241,976. Italy 196,224. And Spain 179,125. There have been 5,510,327 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 12th, 2022.Reinforcing just how lucky we are that Omicron is mostly mild, the World Health Organization says the variant is on track to infect more than half of all Europeans. The organization added they don’t think it should be viewed as a flu-like endemic illness yet either. The acting head of the FDA said most Americans will get COVID.Quebec is going to start charging adults who won’t get vaccinated a financial penalty. That’s the first time a government in Canada has taken this step. The amount of the penalty hasn’t been decided yet, but it’s said it will be “significant.” They aren’t calling it a fine, they’re calling it a “health contribution.”There might be something to that ventilation argument to fight COVID. Some researchers in the U.K. found the airborne infectivity rate goes down fairly quickly after being released into the air. 50 to 60% within seconds, and after 10 minutes, only 10% of the virus remained infectious. They say as the viral particles leave our wet, carbon dioxide-rich lungs, they dry out, and the loss of carbon dioxide increases the pH dropping infectivity. And a new study by Japanese researchers shows peak viral loads in people infected with Omicron, and thus the peak of contagiousness, happens 3 to 6 days after the onset of symptoms. This adds fuel to the criticism fire against the CDC’s revised recommendation that self-isolation time should be 5 days, not 10. In the testing, viral levels were still fairly high in almost all patients between 7 and 9 days.The TSA is reporting 3,694 employees with active Covid infections. That’s about 7% of total screeners. The week before Omicron was first identified in the US, there were 275 cases. The surge in cases at the agency is a 1,243% increase since Thanksgiving. Over 96% of TSA employees are currently fully vaccinated. In the United States, cases were up 204%, deaths are up 36%, and hospitalizations are up 83% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Indiana, Delaware, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Pennsylvania.There are now over 19 million active cases in the United States, at 19,885,128.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: The U.S. Virgin Islands 836%. Puerto Rico 389%, Louisiana 341%. Florida 278%. And Washington, DC 195%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Teton, WY. Miami-Dade, FL. Pitkin, CO. New York City, NY. Summit, UT. Passaic, NJ. Nantucket, MA. Cass, IL. Hampden, MA. And Nassau, NY. There have been at least 842,139 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 78.2%, Rhode Island at 77.3%, and Maine at 76.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 47.9%, Alabama at 48.1%, and Mississippi at 48.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 62.6%.Globally, cases were up 177% and deaths up 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are now over 46 million active cases around the world, at 46,919,390.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 672,872. France 368,149. Italy 220,532. India 185,112. And Spain 134,942. There have now been over five and a half million deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide, at 5,503,822. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 11th, 2022.Free tests are coming for American citizens, perhaps just in time for you to not need them. Starting Saturday, private health insurers must cover up to eight home COVID tests per month for people on their plans. Everyone else can submit receipts for reimbursement. This depends on your ability to find COVID tests. Later this month, the government is launching a website to start making 500 million at-home tests available via mail. We all kinda figured out this was true, but it’s still a little shocking to hear the Director of the CDC admit it. She said for the first time on CNN the vaccines are no longer effective at preventing transmission of the virus. And not just Omicron, for Delta as well. She said the vaccines are doing very well however protecting against serious illness and death.A new reason to bless people who sneeze. An Imperial College London Study found that high levels of T-cells from the common cold can protect against COVID. A reminder…the common cold is a coronavirus. The findings could lead to more effective vaccines. The study did not say how long protection from these T-cells lasts.Hospitals around the U.S. are letting more and more nurses and other workers currently infected with the coronavirus stay on the job. That’s if they have only mild symptoms, or none. It’s a way to cope with staffing shortages. That doesn’t completely go against the CDC, which says asymptomatic health care workers can go back to work after seven days, but it can be sooner if there are staffing shortages. Is the Deltacron variant real or a myth like the Loch Ness Monster? Our apologies if you believe in Nessie. Health experts are leaning on the side of dismissing reports of a fusion of Delta and Omicron, saying it’s probably just an error during genetic sequencing, specifically, the "lab contamination of Omicron fragments in a Delta specimen."In the United States, cases were up 216%, deaths are up 17%, and hospitalizations are up 83% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Delaware, Wyoming, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Michigan.There are 18,945,427 active cases in the United States.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: The U.S. Virgin Islands 858%. Puerto Rico 429%, Louisiana 364%. Florida 300%. And Washington, DC 221%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Miami-Dade, FL. Teton, WY. New York City, NY. Pitkin, CO. Nassau, NY. Passaic, NJ. Summit, UT. Essex, NJ. Florida, PR. And Rockland, N.Y. There have been at least 839,372 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 77.9%, Rhode Island at 77.3%, and Maine at 76.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 47.7%, Mississippi at 48%, and Alabama at 48.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 62.5%.Globally, cases were up 222% and deaths down 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are now over 44 million active cases around the world, at 44,476,625.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 565,042. France 296,097. India 180,438. Italy 155,659. And the U.K. 141,438. There have been at least 5,493,864 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 10th, 2022.COVID cases might be beginning to slow down. Looking just at New York, for the first time since mid-December, hospitalizations decreased by almost 100 patients Saturday. The daily percentage of new positive cases declined slightly for the third day in a row. This mirrors the trajectory in South Africa, which was a large spike, followed by a steep decline. No steep decline yet in the U.S. but the numbers look promising. The director of the CDC clarified the number of COVID hospitalizations among children. Yes, they’re rising during this surge, but it’s still not nearly the levels seen for older Americans. She also said there are actually about 3,500 children with COVID being treated in hospitals, correcting misinformation from a Supreme Court justice that there are 100,000.Omicron is mostly mild, but it is not risk-free. Israel is seeing its first case of heart inflammation linked to an Omicron infection. A 43-year-old man who was fully vaccinated and boosted was infected and is being treated for myocarditis in intensive care. Other variants have been known to cause it and in very rare cases, it’s shown up in young men after getting an mRNA vaccine.In one of the most cooperative vaccine states, California, uptake of booster shots isn’t very impressive. In some counties it’s as low as 23%. The state average is 38% but some high population counties including Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Diego, and San Bernadino are all lagging well behind that number. If you’re having trouble finding a COVID test, try China. It began mass testing of all, that’s right all, 14 million residents of the city of Tianjin. This after 20 people tested positive. The city is near Beijing where the Winter Olympics start February 4. Testing will get done in just two days. In the United States, cases were up 215%, deaths are up 16%, and hospitalizations are up 80% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Delaware, Wyoming, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Michigan.There are now over 18 million active cases in the United States, at 18,146,166.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: The U.S. Virgin Islands 785%. Puerto Rico 399%, Louisiana 364%. Florida 292%. And Washington, DC 216%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Miami-Dade, FL. Teton, WY. New York City, NY. Pitkin, CO. Nassau, NY. Passaic, NJ. Summit, UT. Essex, NJ. Florida, PR. And Rockland, NY. There have been at least 837,594 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 77.8%, Rhode Island at 77.2%, and Maine at 76.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 47.6%, Mississippi at 48%, and Alabama at 48.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 62.4%.Globally, cases were up 213% and deaths down 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are now over 42 million active cases around the world, at 42,848,957.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 308,616. France 296,097. India 180,438. Italy 155,659. And the U.K. 141,472. There have been at least 5,488,375 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 7th, 2022.As with previous variants, Omicron is sidelining people we really need. More than 800 Los Angeles city police and fire personnel have been sidelined, which is adding to 911 response times. There’s also the absent health care workers and teachers. One in six of San Francisco's 3,600 teachers were out Thursday. Administrators and substitutes are stepping in but there’s not enough teachers for every classroom.Japan has asked U.S. military members stationed there to stay on their bases. It’s not clear if a base curfew will be issued. Some officials are blaming them for the alarming rise of cases in Okinawa and Iwakuni where Americans have a large presence.Africa's top public health official said severe lockdowns aren’t the best way to contain COVID anymore. He praised South Africa for not locking down when responding to the Omicron outbreak, saying, “We’re very encouraged with what we saw in South Africa during this period where they look at the data in terms of severity of infections.” Less than 10% of Africa's population has been fully vaccinated.Three popular tourist destinations are now requiring visitors not just have proof of full vaccination, but boosters as well. On Maui, you’ll need one to dine inside or work out at a gym. France has a booster requirement for all tourists 18 and up. And the Netherlands announced the only vaccine certificates they’ll accept are those that show a booster dose on it. And if you’re going to Hong Kong, you aren’t going to Disneyland most of this month. It’ll be closed from January 7 to the 20th. The park said the closure was "required by the government and health authorities in line with prevention efforts taking place across Hong Kong." This marks the fourth time the park has been closed during the pandemic.In the United States, cases were up 247%, deaths are down 3%, and hospitalizations are up 58% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Ohio, Michigan, Arizona, and Maine.There are now over 16 million active cases in the United States, at 16,619,075.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Puerto Rico 619%, the U.S. Virgin Islands 508%. Louisiana 345%. Florida 284%. And Washington, DC 263%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Miami-Dade, FL. Pitkin, CO. Essex, NJ. New York City, NY. Nassau, NY. Teton, WY. Summit, CO. Passaic, NJ. Vega Baja, PR. And Union, NJ.There have been at least 833,957 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 77.8%, Rhode Island at 76.9%, and Maine at 76.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 47.7%, Alabama at 47.9%, and Mississippi at 48.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 62.3%.Globally, cases were up 157% and deaths down 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are now over 37 million active cases around the world, at 37,811,837.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 751,512. France 261,481. Italy 219,441. The U.K. 179,756. And India 114,484. There have been at least 5,471,856 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 6th, 2022. So what’s really going on at hospitals? We hear Omicron is mild yet hospitalizations are so high systems are breaking. Mostly, the pain is from staff shortages, a combination of self-imposed shortages due to vaccine mandates and staff home sick with Omicron. ERs are getting crushed with people trying to just get tested for COVID. And two-thirds of patients in some places, test positive while in the hospital for something else. Hospitals are saying COVID patients aren’t as sick as in previous surges, ICUs aren’t as full, and ventilators aren’t needed as much. In Chicago it’s a win for teachers and additional losses for students and their parents. Classes were cancelled for a second day after failure to satisfy the teacher’s union around safety protocols. The union wants remote learning, but Chicago’s public school leaders say that didn’t work and schools can safely stay open with protocols in place. It certainly won’t help boost booster getting, but U.S. health officials said they are not changing the definition of “fully vaccinated” to include boosters. They’re just urging Americans to stay “up to date” on their protection by getting booster shots. That means federal vaccination mandates for travel or employment won't require a booster. The number of Omicron breakthrough infections no longer supports the notion this is a pandemic of the unvaccinated, but France’s President went on the attack anyway. Using French vulgarity, Emmanuel Macron said his strategy is to keep pressuring the unvaccinated. Lawmakers are currently debating whether or not to ban the unvaccinated from leisure activities like eating out. And the Grammy goes to…we’ll have to wait til later to find out. The 64th annual industry self-celebration event is postponed due to Omicron. It was going to be January 31, now there’s no telling when it will happen. Also, the famed Sundance Film Festival is moving all its in-person events in Utah online. In the United States, cases were up 254%, deaths are down 3%, and hospitalizations are up 51% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New Hampshire. There are 15,951,678 active cases in the United States. The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Puerto Rico 613%, Louisiana 336%, the U.S. Virgin Islands 314%. Florida 264%. And Washington, DC 258%.   The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pitkin, CO. Miami-Dade, FL. Essex, NJ. Summit, CO. New York City, NY. Nassau, NY. Vega Baja, PR. Putnam, NY. Teton, WY. And Passaic, NJ. There have been at least 832,115 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 77.5%, Rhode Island at 76.8%, and Maine at 76.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 47.5%, Mississippi at 47.9%, and Alabama at 48%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 62.2%. Globally, cases were up 156% and deaths down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are now over 35 million active cases around the world, at 35,993,713. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 704,661. France 332,252. The U.K. 194,747. Italy 189,109. And Spain 137,180.  There have been at least 5,464,589 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 5th, 2022.The U.S. added more than 1 million people to its case count Monday that encompasses a surge in infections over the holidays. It doesn’t really count as a single day record since much of the reporting was delayed and came in all at once. But on the other hand, many are testing at home and don’t report to authorities, which means the numbers are probably being underestimated if anything. The CDC says Omicron now makes up around 95.4% of new cases. Speaking of those at home tests, you may not be able to find any. But if you do, expect to pay more. Walmart, Kroger and Amazon had been selling them "at cost" as part of a deal with the White House. Now the kits will go up to $23.99 for a package of two. And most places still have limits on how many you can buy. Things are getting very rough for residents of the Chinese city of Xi'an who are under a strict zero tolerance coronavirus lockdown. Business owners are suffering and many of the 13 million residents have started having trouble finding food as they are largely confined to their homes. And now another city, Yuzhou, has been placed under a similar lockdown after three asymptomatic cases were discovered.You have enough problems without your body attacking itself, but a new study of 177 health care workers indicates those who recover from even mild cases often have elevated autoantibody levels that can cause the body to mistakenly attack itself months later. Gender also appears to make a difference, with males carrying the risk of autoimmune activation after symptomatic COVID, and females carrying the risk after asymptomatic exposure.Add this to the list of things that no, you can’t do that. A teacher in New York was arrested New Year's Eve for allegedly giving a vaccine injection at her house to a 17-year-old boy. And no, his mother did not give her permission. While the teacher was a science teacher, she was in no way authorized to administer vaccines.In the United States, cases were up 254%, deaths are down 3%, and hospitalizations are up 43% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New Hampshire.There are now over 15 million active cases in the United States, at 15,288,098.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Puerto Rico 615%, the Virgin Islands 342%, Louisiana 315%, Washington, DC 243%, and Florida 225%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pitkin, CO. Miami-Dade, FL. Essex, NJ. Summit, CO. New York City, NY. Nassau, NY. Vega Baja, PR. Putnam, NY. Teton, WY. And Passaic, NJ.There have been at least 830,068 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 77.5%, Rhode Island at 76.8%, and Maine at 76.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 47.4%, Mississippi at 47.9%, and Alabama at 48%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 61.9%.Globally, cases were up 146% and deaths down 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are now over 33 million active cases around the world, at 33,999,521.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 567,696. France 271,686. The U.K. 218,724. Italy 170,844. And Spain 117,775. There have been at least 5,456,350 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 4th, 2022.Another Covid variant has reportedly been found in France. The mutant strain has 46 mutations. About 12 cases have been spotted near Marseille, with the first linked to travel to Cameroon. But there’s little sign it’s outcompeting the dominant Omicron variant, which now makes up more than 60% of cases in France, and the strain has not spread rapidly since its discovery December 10.It's a little chaotic out there as schools and workplaces try to figure out what to do now that the holidays are over. For workplaces, the problem is so many people out sick with COVID they simply can’t open or get the work done. For schools it’s the now familiar debate between in person and remote learning. Some schools are doing neither because too many teachers and substitutes are sick. It’s booster time for kids as young as 12. The FDA approved Pfizer’s booster for that age whereas before, it was only available to those 16 and above. Now a CDC panel has to decide later this week whether or not to recommend the boosters but when has the CDC ever not recommended vaccine shots? Kids should be able to get the booster as early as five months after their last dose.We can argue as to whether or not they’re essential personnel, but COVID has a lot of people in Congress sick as well. It’s been recommended they go to a “maximal telework posture.” The seven-day average rate of infection at the Capitol's testing center went from less than 1% to more than 13%. Breakthrough cases have not led to any deaths or hospitalizations among lawmakers or their staff.If you think your Starbucks barista is more essential than Congress, the company’s U.S. workers must now be fully vaccinated by February 9 or face weekly testing, and hopefully they’ll get the names right on the tests. Starbucks’ 228,000 U.S. employees must disclose their vaccination status by January 10. In the United States, cases were up 238%, deaths are down 3%, and hospitalizations are up 41% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Arizona.There are now over 14 million active cases in the United States, at 14,517,726.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Puerto Rico 617%, Louisiana 313%, Washington, DC 252%, the Virgin Islands 235%, and Florida 222%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Miami-Dade, FL. Pitkin, CO. Summit, CO. Essex, NJ. New York City, NY. Nassau, NY. Vega Baja, PR. Baltimore, MD. Charles, MD. And Prince George’s MD.There have been at least 827,726 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 77.4%, Rhode Island at 76.5%, and Maine at 75.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 47.5%, Alabama at 47.6%, and Mississippi at 48.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 61.9%.Globally, cases were up 127% and deaths down 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are now over 32 million active cases around the world, at 32,130,741.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 408,874. The U.K. 157,758. Spain 93,190. Italy 68,052. And France 67,461. There have been at least 5,448,758 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for January 3rd, 2022.Top federal health officials in the U.S. are now looking to add a negative test along with its five-day isolation restrictions for Americans who test positive but have no symptoms. You keeping up with all this? The CDC is adding the test not because of science, but due to pushback on its new recommendations of last week that isolation be shortened from 10 days to five.Does anyone want to be in charge anymore? The US President said recently he doesn’t believe there’s a federal answer to COVID and the states should handle it. Now the Governor of Colorado is saying there won’t be any state restrictions and local municipalities should handle it. The state has had a nearly 250% increase in infections over the last two weeks. It may not be the most pleasant way to measure COVID but unlike at home tests, it sure is readily available, and more reliable. Health departments are increasingly using sewage samples for some coronavirus data that helps them better prepare. And bonus, you can also measure things like obesity, opioids, even polio. Coronavirus levels in those sewage samples across the country are higher now than at any point in the pandemic. Well now we’re just making up words. It’s been confirmed you can catch COVID and the flu at the same time, and that’s being called “flurona.” A pregnant woman in Israel is believed to be the world's first case of flurona. Her symptoms are mild, but the message from health officials is…get COVID vaccines, get a COVID booster, and get the flu shot too. You know how to discredit conspiracy theories? Don’t do exactly what the conspiracy theory says is going to happen. A tech start-up has a microchip that’s to be implanted in people’s arms so they can be scanned for their vaccination status. The managing director says he hears the criticism, but the technology is here to stay, like it or not.In the United States, cases were up 202%, deaths are down 4%, and hospitalizations are up 30% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Michigan, Tennessee, Ohio, New Hampshire, and Arizona.There are now over 13 million active cases in the United States, at 13,751,707.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Puerto Rico 495%, Louisiana 249%, Washington, DC 236%, the Virgin Islands 194%, and Florida 182%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Miami-Dade, FL. Summit, CO. Essex, NJ. New York City, NY. Pitkin, CO. Nassau, NY. San Juan, PR. Bayamon, PR. Baltimore, MD. And Carolina, PR.There have been at least 826,060 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 77.4%, Rhode Island at 76.5%, and Maine at 75.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming unchanged at 47.5%, Alabama unchanged at 47.6%, and Mississippi unchanged at 48.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 61.9%.Globally, cases were up 121% and deaths down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are now over 30 million active cases around the world, at 30,639,261.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 185,122. The U.K. 137,583. Italy 61,046. France 58,432. And Canada 35,127.There have been at least 5,443,453 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for December 31st, 2021.Lots of concern about the number of children being hospitalized with COVID, and most of them aren’t vaccinated. The CDC says during the week of Dec. 22-28, an average 378 children 17 and under were admitted daily with the coronavirus, a 66% increase from the prior week. While it’s not being reported whether these cases are Delta or Omicron, the kids do seem less sick than those who came in during the Delta surge. As expected, Israel has approved dose number four the vaccine for the most vulnerable, becoming one of the first countries to do so. The Health Ministry said it will watch the data to see if the fourth shot needs to be expanded out to even more people.Germany is dropping the requirement that travelers from Britain quarantine and provide negative COVID tests January 4. And in South Africa, they’ve lifted a midnight to 4 a.m. curfew, saying they believe the country’s passed the peak of its Omicron-driven fourth wave of the virus. South Africa’s currently at the lowest of its five-stage COVID alert levels.Good news for you Johnson & Johnson recipients, two reports have shown those who get booster doses of that vaccine are well protected against severe disease and hospitalization from Omicron. One study showed vaccine effectiveness against hospitalization at 85% post booster. The other showed the vaccine stimulates a strong immune response from T-cells, which protect you even if the virus isn’t completely blocked.If you think you can avoid the coronavirus by isolating yourself, try this on for size. Two-thirds of researchers in a remote station in Antarctica caught it even though they were fully vaccinated, PCR tested before arriving, and miles from civilization. So good luck with that isolation thing. In the United States, cases were up 153%, deaths are down 7%, and hospitalizations are up 14% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Michigan, Tennessee, New Mexico, Arizona, and Pennsylvania.There are 12,933,384 active cases in the United States.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Puerto Rico 335%, Washington DC 168%, Louisiana 118%, Florida 104%, and Hawaii 101%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pitkin, CO. Summit, CO. Essex, NJ. Eagle, CO. New York City, NY. Nassau, NY. San Juan, PR. Washington, DC. Miami-Dade, FL. And Guaynabo, PR.There have been at least 824,277 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 77.3%, Rhode Island at 76.3%, and Maine unchanged at 75.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 47.5%, Alabama unchanged at 47.6%, and Mississippi unchanged at 48.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 61.9%.Globally, cases were up 68% and deaths down 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are now over 28 million active cases around the world, at 28,254,090.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 565,987 – over a half million new cases in just one day. France 206,243. The U.K. 189,213. Spain 161,688. And Italy 126,888. There have been at least 5,428,687 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for December 30th, 2021.Whoops. Germany’s health minister said their infection rate is likely two to three times higher than the statistics that have been reported. He said there’s a shortfall in staff that becomes particularly noticeable over holiday periods at local health offices, and that’s a key part of Germany's reporting chain.France is taking the record-breaking surge seriously, increasing the pressure on the unvaccinated. The plan is to banish them from, well, society. Restaurants, cinemas, theaters, museums, and sports arenas, inter-regional trains and buses, and domestic flights. More than 4 million adults there remain unvaccinated, including more than 1 million who are over 65.Will France’s strategy work? Let’s look at China, which has a zero-tolerance policy toward the virus and a population that’s in virtual total compliance. Cases rose for the fourth day in a row in the city of Xi’an, where 13 million people have been living under a comprehensive lockdown.And again, all this over a variant that is by nearly all reporting, mild, with symptoms akin to allergies. The CDC Director said COVID deaths and hospitalizations are comparatively low given how fast and broad Omicron has spread. And Dr. Anthony Fauci agrees.Let’s check in with those unvaccinated folks and get the latest on why they aren’t getting it. A new Census Bureau poll shows most, nearly half, are worried about potential side effects. Not trusting the vaccines and not trusting the government were also among the top reasons. And, being the Census Bureau, they broke down the demographics of the unvaccinated. 75% are under age 50. The unvaccinated also tend to have lower levels of education, be single, and African-American. In the United States, while cases were up 153% and breaking records, deaths are down 7%, and hospitalizations are up 11% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Michigan, Tennessee, New Mexico, Arizona, and Pennsylvania.There are now over 12 million active cases in the United States, at 12,404,303.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Puerto Rico 275%, Washington DC 141%, Louisiana 96%, Hawaii 86%, and Florida 83%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pitkin, CO. Summit, CO. Essex, NJ. Eagle, CO. New York City, NY. Nassau, NY. San Juan, PR. Washington, DC. Miami-Dade, FL. And Guaynabo, PR.There have been at least 822,892 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 77.3%, Rhode Island at 76.2%, and Maine at 75.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 47.4%, Alabama at 47.6%, and Mississippi unchanged at 48.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 61.9%.Globally, cases were up 62% and deaths down 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are now over 27 million active cases around the world, at 27,048,801.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 465,670. France 208,099. The U.K. 183,037. Spain 100,760. And Italy 98,030. There have been at least 5,421,557 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for December 29th, 2021. The US Tuesday broke the previous record for most daily cases as infections accelerate. And most experts are saying Omicron is going to make for a very difficult January. One CNN medical analyst thinks the US could see half a million cases a day sometime over the next week to 10 days. The rate of booster doses has actually fallen in recent weeks. Only 32.7% of the U.S.’s fully vaccinated population is boosted. As it often has, the new CDC guidance around isolating and quarantining has left many Americans confused and many medical experts critical. They want to know why let people leave isolation without getting tested in the middle of a wintertime spike in cases. They think the answer might be pressure from the private sector. Speaking of the CDC, it’s revised down its estimates for how many US infection are caused by Omicron. Revised it down by a lot. They now say it accounts for about 59% of all cases, not 73% like it said previously. Want some more good news? Another leading immunologist in the UK says Omicron is “not the same disease we were seeing a year ago” and high Covid death rates in the UK are “now history.” A small CDC study shows people who had Covid and later get reinfected with Omicron appear to experience fewer symptoms. And a special envoy for the World Health Organization says that in pandemics, the expected pattern is the virus becomes more transmissible but less serious, and Omicron might be a step toward our relatively safe coexistence with the virus. If you’re having trouble finding a rapid test to see if you have Omicron, don’t stress too much about it. The FDA says that when it comes to detecting the new variant, they’re more likely to give you a false negative anyway. So how do you know if you have a cold, the flu, or COVID? An attending physician at Children's National Hospital tells CNN the early signs are alike for all three. Flu symptoms include fever, fatigue, body aches, sore throat, shortness of breath and vomiting or diarrhea.Covid-19 infection can be distinguished by headaches and a dry cough. Maybe loss of taste and smell though that’s not common with Omicron. Night sweats are more common with Omicron. The best way to determine if it might be COVID is to factor in possible exposure you’ve had.  In the United States cases were up 105%, deaths are down 5%, and hospitalizations are up 6% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Alaska, New Mexico, Michigan, Arizona, and Ohio. There are 11,981,273 active cases in the United States. The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Puerto Rico 225%, Washington DC 111%, New Jersey and Louisiana 60%, and Florida 57%.   The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pitkin, CO. Summit, CO. Essex, NJ. Hopkins, TX. Eagle, CO. Washington, DC. Miami-Dade, FL. San Juan, PR. Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands. And New York City, NY.  There have been at least 820,708 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 77.3%, Rhode Island at 76.1%, and Maine at 75.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 47.3%, Alabama at 47.5%, and Mississippi at 48.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 61.8%. Globally, cases were up 48% and deaths down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 25,972,119 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 312,939. France... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for December 28th, 2021.The CDC shortened its isolation and quarantine recommendations for Americans based on data that if you’re infected, you’re most contagious two days before and three days after symptoms show up. If you’re infected, regardless of vaccination status, when you test positive you should isolate for five days, instead of the previously recommended 10. After that, if you have no symptoms, you can go back to normal but wear a mask everywhere — even at home around others — at least five more days. If you were in close contact with an infected person but haven’t tested positive yourself and aren’t fully vaccinated, you should quarantine 10 days at least. If you’ve had your booster, you can skip quarantine if you wear masks in all settings at least 10 days.About those masks. If you’re wearing those blue surgical cloth kind, they’re now saying that’s not good enough. They reportedly don’t provide enough protection against Delta and especially Omicron. So you might run into places that require you have an N95 mask, which is great news for N95 mask companies because they run about $2 each. Why is COVID testing such a mess? An anonymous insider at an Australia pathology unit gives us one inside look at why it takes so long to process PCR tests, and their account has been verified by healthcare experts and other healthcare workers in pathology. It’s the largely meaningless and unsuccessful travel restrictions. With negative tests required for interstate travel, it’s crushing the system with high demand. The equipment used isn’t meant for this kind of volume, and people are being worked inhumanely and quitting. Testing clinics have been relying on batch testing which lumps a lot of tests together and only separates them out if there’s a positive. But now there’s too many positives to make that work.Have anxiety and depression about getting vaccinated? Then what you need is a vaccination! New research claims COVID vaccinations help alleviate anxiety and depression by a whopping 30%! In the United States cases were up 105%, deaths are down 5%, and hospitalizations are up 6% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Alaska, New Mexico, Michigan, Arizona, and Ohio.There are 11,700,527 active cases in the United States.The five areas with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Puerto Rico 225%, Washington DC 111%, New Jersey and Louisiana 60%, and Florida 57%.  The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pitkin, CO. Summit, CO. Essex, NJ. Hopkins, TX. Eagle, CO. Washington, DC. Miami-Dade, FL. San Juan, PR. Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands. And New York City, NY. There have been at least 818,370 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 76.9%, Rhode Island unchanged at 75.9%, and Maine at 75.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Idaho unchanged at 45.8%, and Alabama and Wyoming at 47.3%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 61.7%.Globally, cases were up 35% and deaths down 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are once again over 25 million active cases around the world, at 25,437,273.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 213,050. The U.K. 98,515. Spain 53,654. Italy 30,810. And France 30,383. There have been at least 5,406,197 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for December 27th, 2021. New extreme restrictions in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, mostly effecting the hospitality and leisure industry. Each nation’s rules are different, but all feature limits on the size of gatherings, social distancing requirements, and tougher rules for pubs, restaurants and venues. Examples, in Wales even outdoor events are capped at 50 people, and in Northern Ireland, nightclubs must shut down, and all indoor standing events are banned. One large city after another is either cancelling or downsizing their New Year’s Eve celebrations. Times Square will be scaled back with everyone vaccinated, masked, and distanced. Athens, Greece, and Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich Germany have canceled firework celebrations. Also, cancellations in London, New Delhi, Paris, and Rome. However, the party’s still on in Vegas.  It was a holiday nightmare as flight cancellations in the U.S. approached 2,400 for the Christmas weekend as Omicron cases triggered air-crew shortages. The situation improved a bit Sunday. Travel experts say disruptions could extend into the New Year’s holiday weekend.  All of this over a variant that by the vast majority of accounts is mild, akin to allergies. But that doesn’t mean there haven’t been a few deaths from Omicron. New South Wales recorded its first such death, also believed to be the first in Australia. However, it was a fully vaccinated man in his 80s who was infected at an aged care facility and who had underlying health conditions. So now where do we stand with vaccine hesitancy? Polling shows the percentage of US adults refusing to get the shot pretty much hasn’t moved since the vaccine rolled out, but the share of those who were hesitant about it went down from 31% in January to 18% in March. The numbers are going in the other direction for parents of kids 5 to 11 who definitely won’t vaccinate their child. That went up from 24% in September to 30% in October.  In the United States cases were up 83%, deaths are up 3%, and hospitalizations are up 8% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Alaska, New Mexico, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Arizona.   There are once again over 11 million active cases in the United States, at 11,353,552. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Washington DC 82%, New Jersey 55%, Hawaii 54%, Florida 47%, and Connecticut 40%.   The top 10 areas with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Essex, NJ. Hopkins, TX. San Juan, PR. Miami-Dade, FL. Cuyahoga, OH. Guaynabo, PR. Naranjito, PR. Bayamon, PR. Nassau, NY. And New York City, NY.  There have been at least 816,610 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 76.8%, Rhode Island at 75.9%, and Maine at 75.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Idaho at 45.8%, Wyoming at 47.2%, and Alabama at 47.3%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 61.7%. Globally, cases were up 20% and deaths down 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are once again over 24 million active cases around the world, at 24,556,333. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 96,384. France 27,697. Italy 24,883. Russia 23,721. And Turkey 20,138.  There have been at least 5,399,891 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for December 24th, 2021. Remember all those healthcare workers the government wanted fired if they didn’t get vaccinated? Turns out they now realize that created a real problem. With the Omicron wave coming and hospitals understaffed, federal officials loosened the rules that health care workers have to stay out of work 10 days if they test positive. They can now get back it after seven days if they test negative and don't have symptoms.  Yesterday we told you about the Pfizer at home treatment pill getting approved to fight COVID, now they’ve authorized a second pill. This time it’s Merck’s molnupiravir. But it’s been made clear Pfizer’s Paxlovid is preferred because Merck's pill’s ability to head off severe COVID is much smaller than initially announced and the label will warn of serious safety issues, including the potential for birth defects. China put a city of 13 million people into lockdown, part of the country’s “zero tolerance” policy just weeks before it’s set to host the Winter Olympics. In the northeastern city of Xi’an, one person from each household will be allowed out every two days to get necessities. Everyone else stays home around the clock. People who were in hotels at the time became stuck there. If you have a fake vaccine card in New York, you’re no longer a clever scamp, you’re a criminal. The governor signed legislation criminalizing fake Covid vaccination cards. The new law makes the falsification of cards a misdemeanor and creates a new felony of "computer tampering in the third degree for intentional entering, alteration or destruction of 'computer material' regarding COVID-19 vaccine provisions."  We leave you with the frequently asked question of the week, so is everybody going to get COVID sooner or later? The experts say not necessarily. You’ll probably be exposed, but whether or not you get infected and what it does to you still depends on public policy and how you behave. Bottom line, even if you’re fully vaccinated, mentally prepare to test positive at some point. But no need to get overly alarmed when, or if, you do.  In the United States cases were up 38%, deaths are up 6%, and hospitalizations are up 11% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Alaska, Michigan, New Mexico, Arizona, and Maine.   There are 10,989,003 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Washington DC 64%, Connecticut 58%, New Jersey 56%, Maryland 53%, and North Carolina 41%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Hopkins, TX. Cuyahoga, OH. Tompkins, NY. Pike, IL. Franklin, PA. Washington DC. Adams, PA. Lake, OH. Essex, NJ. And Winona, MN.  There have been at least 813,991 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 76.8%, Rhode Island at 75.9%, and Maine at 75.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Idaho unchanged at 46%, Wyoming at 47.2%, and Alabama at 47.3%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 61.7%. Globally, cases were up 16% and deaths down 10% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 23,950,299 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 236,519. The U.K. 106,122. France 84,272. Spain 60,041. And Germany 45,848.  There have been at least 5,384,260 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for December 23rd, 2021. How about a little good news for the holidays? Modeling by scientists in Scotland predicted 47 Omicron patients should have been hospitalized by December 19 if infection patterns were the same as Delta. So far, there have been 15 admissions. There’s more. The first UK data of its kind shows Omicron appears to have a 20%-25% reduced chance of a hospital visit and at least a 40% lower risk of being admitted overnight. There’s more. A new analysis by the University of Washington shows the Omicron surge will peak in a massive wave of infections by the end of January but produce far fewer severe illnesses for most people. There’s more. South Africa's seen a noticeable drop in new cases in recent days, signaling the Omicron surge has already passed its peak. And Omicron appears to have caused milder disease there with significantly less hospitalizations, patients requiring oxygen, and deaths. The World Health Organization continues to be very displeased with how countries like the United States are pushing boosters. The White House recently announced a redoubling of efforts to get more boosters in more arms. The WHO Director General warned such efforts in rich countries risks prolonging the global pandemic fight. He correctly points out most hospitalizations and deaths are still from unvaccinated people, not unboosted people. The FDA authorized the first pill against COVID, a Pfizer drug you can take at home to head off the worst effects of the virus. The pill, Paxlovid, is a faster way to treat early infections, however supplies will be extremely limited at first. All previously authorized COVID drugs require an IV or injection. Nobody in the U.S. can feel special anymore, Omicron has now been confirmed in all 50 states, and that happened about three weeks after it was first detected in the country. And the message to stop traveling just isn’t sticking. Nearly 2 million people passed through TSA checkpoints Tuesday. That’s about the same number from the same day in pre-pandemic 2019. In the United States cases were up 27%, deaths are up 4%, and hospitalizations are up 13% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Michigan, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Arizona, and Maine.   There are 10,769,803 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Washington DC 66%, Connecticut 64%, New Jersey 58%, Maryland 53%, and North Carolina and Rhode Island 49%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Hopkins, TX. Tompkins, NY. Cuyahoga, OH. Pike, IL. Winona, MN. Rains, TX. Monroe WV. Greene, IL. Lake, OH. And Washington, DC.  There have been at least 812,069 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 76.6%, Rhode Island at 75.7%, and Maine at 75.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Idaho at 46%, Wyoming at 47%, and Alabama at 47.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 61.6%. Globally, cases were up 11% and deaths down 10% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 23,521,962 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 232,383. The U.K. 106,122. France 84,272. Spain 60,041. And Germany 45,848.  There have been at least 5,376,422 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for December 22nd, 2021. The World Health Organization’s top official in Europe urged governments to get ready for a “significant surge” in cases due to Omicron, already dominant in several countries. And making the assumption it will be as severe as Delta, the official said it will push already stretched health systems further to the brink. Deaths in the region are 40% higher than a year ago, but no one can or will say if these extra deaths are from Omicron or other variants. The U.S. announced new steps to fight the Omicron wave. 500 million free rapid tests for Americans, increased support for hospitals, and redoubling vaccination and boosting efforts. For the free tests, you’ll use a new government website to order them, and they’ll be delivered by the U.S. mail. While government websites and the U.S. mail do have their critics, that’s a shift from earlier when Americans were told to buy hard-to-find tests then get reimbursed by their insurer.  And it’s a good thing those tests are going to be free. Because several major pharmacies are saying we’re going to limit how many you can buy. For instance, Walgreens will let you get four at a time. There’s been a huge surge in demand because of Omicron and the holidays and travel restrictions and oh yeah, because the government keeps telling us to get tested.  Israel is rolling out a fourth, that’s right a fourth, dose of the Pfizer vaccine for people 60 and older, medical workers and people with suppressed immune systems. And they’re to get it just four months after getting the third dose, formerly known as a booster. Is it necessary? One health expert said, "We don't really have data yet on the level of immunity like we did when we decided on the third dose.” If you thought there’d be a baby boom as a result of the previous lockdowns and working from home in the U.S., think again. The country’s population growth dipped to its lowest rate ever during the first year of the pandemic. From July 2020 to July 2021, the nation grew 0.1%. In the United States cases were up 29%, deaths are up 4%, and hospitalizations are up 12% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Michigan, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Arizona, and Maine.   There are 10,621,626 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Connecticut 60%, Washington, DC 57%, New Jersey 54%, and North Carolina and Maryland 49%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Hopkins, TX. Tompkins, NY. Cuyahoga, OH. Pike, IL. Winona, MN. Rains, TX. Monroe WV. Greene, IL. Lake, OH. And Washington, DC.  There have been at least 810,045 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 76.6%, Rhode Island at 75.7%, and Maine unchanged at 75.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Idaho unchanged at 45.8%, Wyoming unchanged at 47%, and Alabama unchanged at 47.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 61.5%. Globally, cases were up 10% and deaths down 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 23,176,213 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 181,264. The U.K. 90,629. France 72,832. Spain 49,823. And Germany 35,049.  There have been at least 5,368,422 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for December 21st, 2021. Moderna said a booster of its vaccine looks like it protects against Omicron in lab testing and this current version of the shot can still be a "first line of defense against Omicron." With Omicron spreading as fast as it is, the company didn’t see where there would be time to develop an Omicron-specific vaccine.  A win for Novavax. The EU gave the go ahead to its vaccine for use in the 27-nation bloc, making it the fifth approved COVID vaccine. It’s two-doses and right now it’s only for people 18 and older. If you don’t like new things, this is a protein vaccine that uses older technology that’s been around for years. Novavax is currently testing how its vaccine holds up against Omicron.  Few are denying Omicron is a rapid spreader, highly contagious. In very short order, it’s become the dominant version of the coronavirus in the U.S., accounting for 73% of new infections last week. That’s almost a six-fold increase in Omicron's share. Consider that you only started hearing about it as recently as November 26. The President of the United States was at risk of joining our celebrity infections list. He was exposed to a staff member who recently tested positive, around them for about half an hour on Air Force One going from Philadelphia to South Carolina. The staff member was fully vaccinated and boosted. The president took an antigen test Sunday and a PCR test Monday, and both were negative. It’s been two years. How are scientists and health officials in the U.S. doing at gathering accurate and timely data that help inform policy? Terrible. Politico talked to more than a dozen state and federal officials involved in case tracking, whose comments ranged from it being “particularly galling” to “a horrible job” to “it’s embarrassing.” In fact, since other Western countries do it significantly better, the US administration has relied on international sources for the last eight months.  In the United States cases were up 21%, deaths are up 9%, and hospitalizations are up 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Michigan, Arizona, Alaska, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.   There are 10,511,784 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Connecticut 71%, Washington, DC 66%, Rhode Island 61%, New Jersey 60%, and North Carolina 54%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Thompkins, NY. Pike, IL. Cuyahoga, OH. Winona, MN. Clay, IL. Pope, MN. Fayette, IN. Greene, IL. Piatt, IL. And Jefferson, IN. There have been at least 807,945 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 76.5%, Rhode Island at 75.6%, and Maine unchanged at 75.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Idaho unchanged at 45.8%, Wyoming unchanged at 47%, and Alabama unchanged at 47.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 61.4%. Globally, cases were up 4% and deaths down 10% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are once again over 23 million active cases around the world, at 23,058,341. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 143,530. The U.K. 91,743. Russia 27,022. Spain 26,568. And Germany 21,710.  There have been at least 5,360,383 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Covid 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants, and new hotspots for December 20th, 2021. How long will we have to wear masks on airplanes? How about forever? As in never again will we be able to fly without our face being covered. That’s what Dr. Anthony Fauci said on Meet the Press. He can’t see the end of mask wearing on planes ever, regardless of air purification systems touted by airline CEOs.  The Netherlands began a full lockdown that will last through January 14. The Prime Minister ordered most essential stores, as well as restaurants, hairdressers, gyms, museums and other public places to shut down. The public is urged to stay home, and households can only have two guests at a time. Israel believes it can keep Omicron out if it can keep Americans out. Travel between the U.S. and Israel will be banned starting December 22. The U.S. joins Belgium, Canada, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Morocco, Portugal, Switzerland and Turkey as being perceived threats to Israel. Time for the celebrity infection report. Senators Elizabeth Warren and Cory Booker announced they’ve tested positive for COVID-19, despite being fully vaccinated. Booker had also gotten a booster. Both are experiencing only mild symptoms and credit the vaccines. Also, Queen guitarist Brian May tested positive despite being fully vaccinated and what he called being “hermit-like.” May said he had two horrendous days. Yes, it’s just a TV show but it is indicative of how serious New York City is getting about the Omicron wave. Saturday Night Live lost the live audience, the musical guest, and much of its cast and crew for its final episode of the season this past Saturday. Apparently, there was an in-house outbreak that included four actors. Others were fearful to come to the studio. In the United States cases were up 21%, deaths are up 9%, and hospitalizations are up 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since December 14.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Michigan, Arizona, Alaska, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.   There are 10,398,516 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Connecticut 69%, Washington, DC 62%, Rhode Island 61%, New Jersey 57%, and North Carolina 54%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Thompkins, NY. Pike, IL. Cuyahoga, OH. Winona, MN. Clay, IL. Pope, MN. Fayette, IN. Greene, IL. Piatt, IL. And Jefferson, IN. There have been at least 806,439 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 76.3%, Rhode Island at 75.5%, and Maine at 75.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Idaho unchanged at 45.8%, Wyoming at 47%, and Alabama at 47.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 61.2%. Globally, cases were up 4% and deaths down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 22,963,723 active cases around the world.  The five countries with the most new cases: The U.K. 82,886. The United States 66,751. France 48,473. Russia 27,967. And Italy 24,259. There have been at least 5,354,224 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Covid 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Covid 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for December 17th, 2021. After the meeting we told you about yesterday, the CDC has come out and said most Americans should get Pfizer or Moderna instead of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The advisers said a blood clotting problem has caused nine confirmed deaths after J&J vaccinations — while the other top vaccines don't have that risk and appear more effective. J&J will stay on the market because the condition is rare, but it is no longer considered a one dose vaccine.  You may as well accept that Omicron is everywhere, even in places that have had almost no cases of clinical infection. Take Orange County, Florida for example, home of Disney World and Universal. Wastewater testing shows Omicron is already the dominant strain of COVID-19 in the county. In fact, it represented almost 100% of the strains in the wastewater samples. It’s become almost comically naïve, thinking travel restrictions will slow or stop the Omicron variant. But countries have to do something and travel is an attractive target. France is sharply restricting travel to and from Britain, putting limits on reasons for traveling and requiring 48-hour isolation on arrival. And Sweden will make citizens from its fellow Nordic countries show a vaccination certificate when entering starting next week. We hear health care systems expressing grave worry about their ability to care for people. And here’s just one example of such a situation. Hospitals in England are 94% full right now and four out of five critical care beds are occupied. And this is before the expected massive influx of patients from Omicron. Yeah, yeah, humans and all that. But what you really might want to know is can your pet get COVID? Well, the answer is yes, and they’d probably get it from you. However, it’s unlikely they’d get seriously ill, and the risk of them spreading it to other people is low. Still, as much comfort as they may provide, the CDC says if you’re infected you should stay away from your pet.  In the United States cases were up 40%, deaths are up 34%, and hospitalizations are up 21% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since December 7.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Montana, Michigan, Arizona, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.   There are 10,204,336 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Connecticut 82%, New Jersey 67%, Rhode Island and North Carolina 65%, and Washington DC 59%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pike, IL. Piatt, IL. Thompkins, NY. Franklin, ME. Aroostook, ME. Piscataquis, ME. Jefferson, IN. Edgar, IL. Clay, IL. And Roosevelt, NM. There have been at least 803,633 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 75.6%, Rhode Island at 75.1%, and Maine at 74.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Idaho at 45.8%, Wyoming at 46.7%, and Alabama at 47%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 61.1%. Globally, cases were up 8% and deaths up 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 22,569,787 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 144,871. The U.K. 88,376. France 60,866. Germany 53,057. And Spain 28,900. There have been at least 5,335,758 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for December 16th, 2021. The Los Angeles school district is the latest in California to delay forcing thousands of unvaccinated students to return to distance learning. Officials decided enforcement would disrupt the education of about 27,000 unvaccinated students, overwhelm the independent study program which already has staff shortages, and risk losing teachers. A federal appeals court panel lifted a nationwide ban against the vaccine mandate for health care workers but did block the requirement in about half the states. It’s not clear if the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid is going to continue suspension of the rule for all states or go ahead with a patchwork of policies. Plus, the court itself said it looks like mandate opponents will prevail as the case moves through the courts.  We hear about poorer nations having trouble accessing vaccines but guess who’s running short. Germany. The Federal Health Minister says they’re facing a shortage in the first quarter of 2022, right when Omicron will probably be wreaking havoc.  Did you get the Johnson & Johnson vaccine? CDC advisers are revisiting the benefits and risks of it today. They’ll hear presentations about thrombosis and TTS, a rare, serious type of blood clotting that’s been linked to J&J, but not Pfizer or Moderna. The CDC Director wouldn’t say if she still believes the benefits outweigh the risks. Omicron is a rapid spreader. In the U.S., the percentage of cases caused by it jumped seven times in one week. But why? What makes it spread so fast? Preliminary data tells us Omicron multiplies about 70 times faster in our respiratory tract tissue than Delta does, then reaches higher levels in the tissue 48 hours after infection. This focus on the respiratory tract, instead of deep in the lungs, may suggest Omicron could cause less severe disease but scientists say it’s still too soon to conclude that.  In the United States cases were up 40%, deaths are up 34%, and hospitalizations are up 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 29.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Montana, Michigan, Arizona, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.   There are 10,124,028 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Connecticut 77%, New Jersey 65%, Rhode Island 63%, North Carolina 62%, and Washington DC 55%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pike, IL. Piatt, IL. Thompkins, NY. Franklin, ME. Aroostook, ME. Piscataquis, ME. Jefferson, IN. Edgar, IL. Clay, IL. And Roosevelt, NM. There have been at least 802,502 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 75.6%, Rhode Island at 75.1%, and Maine at 74.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Idaho unchanged at 45.8%, Wyoming at 46.7%, and Alabama at 47%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 61%. Globally, cases were up 6% and deaths down 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 22,348,772 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 136,590. The U.K. 78,610. France 65,713. Germany 55,650. And Russia 28,363. There have been at least 5,329,000 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for December 15th, 2021. Just one month after it was first detected in South Africa the CDC says Omicron now makes up about 3% of cases in the U.S. Delta still dominates at 97% of all Covid cases analyzed, but Omicron is gaining ground. It’s getting cloudier when the U.S. even had its first Omicron case. But the CDC confirmed Omicron in a symptomatic patient back on November 15.  No matter the variant, the virus seems to spread with relative ease and here’s one possible reason why. New published research shows more than 40% of those who tested positive didn’t have symptoms. For those under 20, the number is more than 60%. That means the virus had plenty of time and plenty of opportunity to spread undetected and untested.  Africa is experiencing its fastest surge in cases this year, up 83%. And while we often hear about African nations not getting fair access to vaccines, Nigeria had one million doses that expired and were thrown out. And they aren’t going to accept any more vaccines with short shelf lives. Nigeria is Africa’s most populous nation.  Italy is now requiring any unvaccinated visitor from another EU country to quarantine for five days after arriving. Those visitors from EU countries must get a negative test within 24 hours of arrival, and non-EU citizens who aren’t vaccinated have to quarantine 10 days. It’s also expanding the vaccine mandate to school personnel, law enforcement, the military and anyone working in a health care setting.  But in the U.K., they’re removing all 11 African nations from its red list just 16 days after it was reintroduced. But not because things are going well. The Health Secretary said Omicron has now spread so far the rules really no longer serve the purpose of COVID-19 prevention.  In the United States cases were up 47%, deaths are up 40%, and hospitalizations are up 21% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 29.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Michigan, Montana, Arizona, Kentucky, and Wisconsin.   There are 10,075,594 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Connecticut 72%, New Jersey 66%, North Carolina 63%, Washington DC 59%, and Massachusetts and Delaware 54%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Allen, KS. Seward, KS. Pike, IL. Piatt, IL. Aroostook, ME. Piscataquis, ME. Fulton, PA. Clay, IL. Jefferson, IN. And Mason, IL. There have been at least 800,343 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 75.2%, Rhode Island at 74.8%, and Maine at 74.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Idaho at 45.8%, Wyoming at 46.4%, and Alabama at 46.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 60.9%. Globally, cases were up 6% and deaths down 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 22,157,993 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 108,566. France 63,405. The U.K. 59,610. Germany 40,795. And Russia 28,343. There have been at least 5,320,236 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for December 14th, 2021. US health officials say Omicron does appear able to evade some of the immune protection of antibodies induced by vaccines but…preliminary data shows a booster raises protection high enough that it does well against the variant. Almost 80% of confirmed Omicron cases in the US are fully vaccinated. But about a third also had a booster. Omicron is now in 30 states. The masks are back on in California. A rule has returned requiring people to wear masks indoors starting Wednesday through at least January 15. The per capita rate of new cases in California has jumped 47% in two weeks. As in the past, the state was unclear how the mandate would be enforced.  Turns out they weren’t kidding. The Air Force discharged 27 people for refusing to get the vaccine, making them the first service members to be removed for disobeying the mandate. November 2 was the deadline, and more than 1,000 airmen have refused the shot, and more than 4,700 are seeking a religious exemption.  The Supreme Court, and once you go there, there’s nowhere else to go, declined to block New York's vaccine mandate for health care workers, which does not allow for religious exemptions. Some health care workers sued the state saying the mandate violated their religious freedoms, but the highest court effectively said there are no religious freedoms in this matter. A new AP poll shows Americans are worried about the Omicron variant, but not worried enough to do much about it. In fact, fewer say they’re regularly wearing masks or isolating compared to the first of the year. 36% are very or extremely worried they or a family member will be infected, that’s up from 25% in late October. 55% of those who are unvaccinated say they have little or no worry.  In the United States cases were up 49%, deaths are up 40%, and hospitalizations are up 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 29.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Michigan, Wyoming, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Arizona.   There are once again over 10 million active cases in the United States, at 10,044,267. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Connecticut 77%, New Jersey 64%, Delaware and Washington DC 61%, and North Carolina 59%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Allen, KS. Seward, KS. Waseca, MN. Edgar, IL. Piatt, IL. Pike, IL. Jefferson, IN. Clay, IL. Vermilion, IL. And Fulton, PA.  There have been at least 798,710 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 75.2%, Rhode Island at 74.8%, and Maine unchanged at 74.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Idaho unchanged at 45.7%, Wyoming unchanged at 46.4%, and Alabama at 46.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 60.8%. Globally, cases were up 6% and deaths down 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 22,083,874 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 95,343. The U.K. 54,661. Russia 29,558. Germany 28,804. And Turkey 18,796. There have been at least 5,311,574 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for December 13th, 2021. While our Johns Hopkins number is not quite there yet, and with more deaths in 2021 than in 2020, the United States has now reportedly reached over 800,000 coronavirus-related deaths. Ahead is a potential surge in cases due to winter and the highly transmissible, but by all reports milder, Omicron variant. The new death toll is more than the entire population of North Dakota. It took 111 days for U.S. deaths to jump from 600,000 to 700,000, but the next 100,000 deaths took only 73 days. The death rate in the US was more than three times higher than Canada and 11 times more than Japan. There are the health costs of COVID, and then there’s the long-term economic tragedy. The World Health Organization and World Bank reports that more than half a billion people globally were pushed into extreme poverty in 2021 due to healthcare costs during the pandemic. The Director of the CDC says the pandemic and mask requirements won’t last forever. The main signs they’re looking for are when hospitals are no longer filled with COVID patients and daily deaths start to plummet. As for mask mandates like the one in New York City, the Director said, “Masks are for now, they’re not forever. We have to find a way to be done with them.” Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned Britain faces a “tidal wave” of infections from Omicron and announced a huge increase in booster vaccinations to defend against it. Everyone 18 and older can get a third shot by the end of this month. It’s believed Omicron cases are doubling every two to three days in Britain. Were you nervous about getting one vaccine shot? Or the second one? Did you wonder if the booster shot would be too much? Well how about 10 COVID vaccine shots in one sitting? New Zealand health authorities are checking out claims a man did just that, taking shots for other people for money. A vaccinologist said other than intense side effects, the man isn’t likely to be seriously harmed. In the United States cases were up 40%, deaths are up 31%, and hospitalizations are up 23% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 29.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Kentucky, Michigan, Wyoming, West Virginia, and Montana.   There are 9,979,825 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Connecticut 81%, Delaware 71%, Rhode Island 67%, and Massachusetts 64%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Waseca, MN. Seward, KS. Allen, KS. Edgar, IL. Vermilion, IL. Aroostook, ME. Piatt, IL. Fayette, IN. Sullivan, NH. And Clay, IL. There have been at least 797,346 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 74.9%, Rhode Island at 74.7%, and Maine at 74.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Idaho at 45.7%, Wyoming at 46.4%, and Alabama at 46.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 60.5%. Globally, cases were up 9% and deaths up 9% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are once again over 22 million active cases around the world, at 22,006,487. The five countries with the most new cases: The U.K. 48,854. France 43,848. The United States 38,784. South Africa 37,875. And Russia 29,929. There have been at least 5,305,655 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for December 10th, 2021. The number of COVID deaths in the US has been horrific, but researchers are again saying those deaths have been vastly undercounted. Especially among Native, Hispanic and Black Americans. New data at the county level for 2020 and January through October of this year gives more detail than ever, including where someone died, what other causes of death were on the death certificate, and whether a body was autopsied. Looking at the new data, public health experts say the true death toll is at least 20% higher than the official tally. That means the number of Americans who have died from the virus could be close to 1 million. The FDA gave emergency authorization for 16- and 17-year-olds to get Pfizer’s booster once they're six months beyond their last dose. The CDC followed up hours later with a strong recommendation encouraging those teens to get the shot as soon as possible. Being an anti-vaxxer in Austria is getting expensive. There are now plans to impose fines of nearly $4,000 on anyone who flouts the vaccine mandate coming in February to all residents 14 and over. It’s the first European country to implement a general vaccine mandate.  If your problem with the vaccine is that it’s not natural enough, how about a plant-based one? GlaxoSmithKline seems to have one that in tests has been shown to be 71% effective at protecting against COVID. Here’s where the irony kicks in. GlaxoSmithKline’s partner is Medicago, a subsidiary of Philip Morris, the cigarette people. And the plant being used is a close relative of tobacco.   A new survey from the Public Religion Research Institute shows only 10% of Americans believe getting a COVID vaccine conflicts with their religious beliefs. 59% even say too many people are using religious beliefs as an excuse. 60% say there’s no valid religious reason to refuse a vaccine. They’re a bit more divided on whether religious exemptions should be allowed at all.  In the United States cases were up 27%, deaths are up 12%, and hospitalizations are up 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 29.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Kentucky, Michigan, West Virginia, Wyoming, and Tennessee.   There are 9,841,074 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Connecticut 73%, Rhode Island 70%, Delaware 66%, Massachusetts 54%, and Illinois and New Jersey 51%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Waseca, MN. Seward, KS. Allen, KS. Fayette, IN. Vermilion, IL. Bennington, VT. Fountain, IN. Benton, MN. Sullivan, NH. And Piatt, IL. There have been at least 794,647 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 74.4%, Rhode Island at 74.1%, and Maine at 73.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 46.3%, Alabama unchanged at 46.6%, and Mississippi unchanged at 47.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 60.4%. Globally, cases were up 8% and deaths were flat over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 21,695,681 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 110,894. France 56,854. The U.K. 50,867. Russia 30,209. And Poland 27,458. There have been at least 5,286,786 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for December 9th, 2021. Starting off with a little reassurance. Cases of Omicron have been reported by 21 countries in the EU. All of them have been either asymptomatic or mild with no deaths reported thus far. And the head of the CDC said out of the 42 known cases of Omicron in the U.S., only one has been hospitalized. In South Africa, reports are that even those who are landing in the ER are there for unrelated reasons but test positive during ER admission. The connection from the very start between severe COVID and obesity has been largely played down and left unmentioned out of fear of political correctness. But the connection is real. Patients who were overweight were more likely to develop severe COVID and more likely to die. Now the New York Times reports researchers have found the virus directly infects fat cells and certain immune cells within body fat, prompting a damaging defensive response.  British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced tighter restrictions, urging people to again work from home and mandating COVID passes to get into nightclubs and large events. Also, starting Friday, the mask mandate will be widened to most indoor public places including theaters. They say the tighter restrictions will buy time to get more boosters in more arms.  Another milestone, the number of Americans fully vaccinated against COVID has hit 200 million. But that’s against the backdrop of rising cases, especially in highly vaccinated New England states. Deaths are running close to 1,600 a day on average, that’s back to what they were in October. Total U.S. deaths could hit 800,000 in a matter of days. Around the world, the strategy is to exclude and isolate the unvaccinated. But one small school district in California is saying that’s exactly what we want. It’s setting up a separate in-person instructional program just for its unvaccinated students. As you would expect, the state doesn’t like that. The intent is to prevent unvaccinated students from losing face-to-face instruction when the state’s K-12 vaccine mandate—the only one of its kind in the nation—goes into effect. In the United States cases were up 27%, deaths are up 13%, and hospitalizations are up 19% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 29.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Montana, Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Michigan.   There are 9,792,640 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Connecticut 69%, Delaware 66%, Rhode Island 65%, Massachusetts 50%, and Illinois and Indiana 49%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Waseca, MN. Fayette, IN. Allen, KS. Bennington, VT. Vermilion, IL. Sullivan, NH. Socorro, NM. Rush, IN. Powell, KY. And Neosho, KS.  There have been at least 793,225 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 74.2%, Rhode Island at 73.9%, and Maine at 73.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 46.2%, Alabama at 46.6%, and Mississippi at 47.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 60.1%. Globally, cases were up 10% and deaths were flat over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 21,505,711 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 127,411. Germany 68,832. France 61,340. The U.K. 51,342. And Russia 30,752. There have been at least 5,278,923 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for December 8th, 2021. The World Health Organization's office for Europe said kids 5 to 14 now account for the highest infection rates in the region. Overall cases and deaths have more than doubled in the last two months in the 53-country region, and the Omicron variant has been seen in 21 of those 53 countries. Early data out of South Africa suggests the Pfizer vaccine appears to be less effective against Omicron. Researchers found there was about a fortyfold reduction in vaccine-induced antibodies that could neutralize the new variant. That means Omicron seems more skilled at evading the antibodies generated by Pfizer than the beta variant, which only saw a threefold reduction.  More home COVID testing is good right? The US administration is even talking about reimbursing home test kit purchases. But is it? Some health officials are pointing out that tests taken at home, regardless of whether they’re positive or negative, never get reported and that is going to make tracking COVID data, which was already a challenge, even harder.  Speaking of testing, the FDA says the Omicron variant may be more successful at evading tests for it. There are three kinds of tests, serology or blood antibodies, antigen, and PCR. If there are enough mutations in a variant, Omicron has 32 of them, that could generate more false negatives. Here’s the latest thing people are saying can help with COVID, seaweed. Well, actually sea lettuce. Lab experiments show an extract of this algae could be beneficial in the pandemic fight. Other studies of other edible seaweed have shown promise but this one has been tested specifically as an antiviral treatment against certain viruses. Scientists say more seaweed tests are needed to be sure.  In the United States cases were up 28%, deaths are up 13%, and hospitalizations are up 18% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 29.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Montana, West Virginia, Michigan, and Kentucky.   There are 9,715,064 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Delaware 62%, Connecticut 60%, Rhode Island 53%, and Indiana and Massachusetts 49%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Fayette, IN. Bennington, VT. Allen, KS. Waseca, MN. Vermilion, IL. Socorro, NM. Sullivan, NH. Rush, IN. Neosho, KS. And Valencia, NM. There have been at least 791,514 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 74%, Rhode Island at 73.7%, and Maine unchanged at 72.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming unchanged at 46%, Alabama unchanged at 46.5%, and Mississippi unchanged at 47.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 60%. Globally, cases were up 10% and deaths were flat over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 21,338,368 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 107,642. France 59,019. Germany 51,512. The U.K. 45,691. And Russia 31,096. There have been at least 5,270,558 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for December 7th, 2021. The Mayor of New York City announced that all private employers, big and small, must now require their workers to get vaccinated, the most sweeping mandate of any big city or state in the U.S. And you must get the injection, there is no testing alternative. That will add about 184,000 businesses, including mom and pops, to those placed under previous mandates,  The European Union's drugs agency recommended approval of an anti-inflammatory medicine to treat adults hospitalized with severe COVID. Now it has to be confirmed by the EU executive commission. The drug is RoActemra from Roche, currently used to treat arthritis. It works by tamping down the protein interleukin-6, often found in excess in COVID patients. In Spain, Christmas festivities at one hospital are suspected of infecting dozens of hospital staff. 170 people attended the Christmas dinner in a restaurant last weekend. And afterwards, 68 staff, including ICU nurses and doctors, tested positive. All took antigen tests before the event and were negative, and all of the infected staff were fully vaccinated. As always, there’s not nearly as much of a war on COVID going on as there is a war on travel. The CDC has put five places in Europe on its list of "very high" travel risk destinations, including one of the very biggest for tourism, France. Also included on the list were Cyprus, Liechtenstein, and Portugal. So will New Yorkers be mad about these new business vaccine mandates? Not if this Morning Consult poll is to be believed. It shows broad approval by Americans for strict measures to control COVID, as long it doesn’t cause businesses and services to shut down. The most commonly supported measures are better ventilation and enforcing social distancing. But masking and vaccine mandates also get the support of a comfortable majority, as in almost 70%. In the United States cases were up 19%, deaths are up 5%, and hospitalizations are up 18% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 29.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Montana, Kentucky, Michigan, and West Virginia.   There are 9,666,139 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Delaware 63%, Connecticut 61%, Rhode Island 56%, Indiana 50%, and Massachusetts 48%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Allen, KS. Bennington, VT. Koochiching, MN. Sullivan, NH. Jackson, IA. Benton, MN. Waseca, MN. Mille Lacs, MN. St. Clair, MI. And Socorro, NM.  There have been at least 789,742 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 73.8%, Rhode Island at 73.5%, and Maine unchanged at 72.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming unchanged at 46%, Alabama at 46.5%, and Mississippi unchanged at 47.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 59.9%. Globally, cases were up 15% and deaths were up 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 21,181,006 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 88,380. The U.K. 51,459. Germany 39,330. Russia 32,136. And Hungary 22,699.  There have been at least 5,262,134 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for December 6th, 2021.At least 12 U.S. states have now identified Omicron cases, but US health officials remain more concerned about Delta. It’s accounting for 99.9% of all new infections and those infections are going up. Results from studies to gauge the severity and transmissibility of Omicron are expected in a few weeks. Cases of Omicron remain mild but that is not true of Delta. In Brussels, Belgium, police turned water cannons and tear gas on protesters against the tightening of COVID restrictions that aim to counter a surge of coronavirus infections. Thousands participated after the government tightened rules for the third week in a row. But an avalanche of new cases has strained the country’s health services.The company’s President says Moderna could have a vaccine booster shot that targets the Omicron variant ready for authorization by March. Although the drumbeat of messaging has been that the existing vaccines protect fine against Omicron, he told the Financial Times he thinks the existing vaccines will be less effective against it than they’ve been against Delta and they’ve already started work on a new booster.A new analysis in The American Journal of Cardiology has revealed a possible link between the vaccines and elevated risk of Myopericarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle. The CDC had almost 2,000 reports of the condition just in 2021 in people who got the vaccine. This is mostly happening in men 25 to 44, but most cases with clinical symptoms seem to resolve within six days.Speaking of men and COVID, a study out of Colorado State suggests men spread coronavirus particles more frequently than women or children. The study was originally to see how the performing arts could safely return to the stage. After doing things like making subjects sing “Happy Birthday” over and over, they learned singing spreads more virus than instruments, adults emit more particles than kids, people who talk loud emit more virus, and men emit more than women, theoretically because they have bigger lungs. In the United States cases were up 19%, deaths are up 5%, and hospitalizations are up 18% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 29.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Montana, Kentucky, Michigan, and West Virginia.  There are 9,637,520 active cases in the United States.The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Delaware 62%, Connecticut 60%, Rhode Island 55%, Indiana 49%, and Illinois 45%.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Allen, KS. Bennington, VT. Koochiching, MN. Sullivan, NH. Jackson, IA. Benton, MN. Waseca, MN. Mille Lacs, MN. St. Clair, MI. And Socorro, NM. There have been at least 788,363 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 73.5%, Rhode Island at 73.3%, and Maine at 72.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming at 46%, Alabama at 46.4%, and Mississippi at 47.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 59.6%.Globally, cases were up 13% and deaths were up 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are once again over 21 million active cases around the world, at 21,146,420.The five countries with the most new cases: The U.K. 43,992. France 42,252. Germany 35,983. The United States 35,065. And Russia 32,602. There have been at least 5,255,544 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for December 3rd, 2021. As expected, the US administration rolled out some measures to fight COVID and the new Omicron variant into winter. All in-bound international passengers must test within 24 hours of departure, and masks will be required on all planes and public transportation through March 18. Also, businesses will be urged expedite worker vaccine and testing mandates, and Americans with private health insurance can get reimbursed for at-home COVID tests. Those without private insurance can get tests through health centers and rural clinics. Tracking the Omicron variant’s spread, it’s in five US states now, including California, New York, Hawaii, Colorado, and Minnesota. As for countries we add Spain, Singapore, India, and in Norway at least 50 people were infected in connection to a company Christmas party in an Oslo restaurant. The Omicron studies continue in South Africa, and so far, they’ve found the variant is reinfecting people at 3x the rate of previous strains. Translated, that means it appears immunity from a previous infection won’t help you. However, more evidence is emerging that the existing vaccines still seem to offer protection against serious illness. Your host got his booster shot yesterday and spent all day sick in bed. Your results may vary. However, I was mixing Pfizer and Moderna like a party animal. But here’s some reassuring news. A British study says the mRNA vaccines provide the biggest boost to antibody levels. The study also found boosters also helped generate a broad T-cell response against the Beta and Delta variants. Be cautious when making sports stars your heroes. Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Antonio Brown has been suspended three games after violating NFL COVID-19 protocols. And here’s how he violated it. He and two other players bought fake vaccination cards this past summer. They know they did it and are not appealing. And they’re vaccinated now. Really. With reporting affected by the Thanksgiving holiday, in the United States cases were down 1%, deaths are down 10%, and hospitalizations are up 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 29.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Montana, Michigan, Kentucky, and West Virginia.   There are 9,520,781 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Rhode Island 52%, Indiana 48%, Massachusetts and Delaware 44%, and Connecticut 42%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Koochiching, MN. Jackson, IA. Bennington, VT. Sullivan, NH. Allen, KS. Neosho, KS. Clinton, IA. Shiawassee, MI. Socorro, NM. And Colfax, NM.  There have been at least 785,907 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 72.9%, Rhode Island at 72.6%, and Maine at 72.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 41.5%, Wyoming at 45.6%, and Alabama at 46.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 59.4%. Globally, cases were up 12% and deaths were down 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 20,720,971 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 132,822. Germany 73,486. The U.K. 53,945. France 48,416. And Russia 33,389. There have been at least 5,233,849 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for December 2nd, 2021. The UN Secretary-General has called the travel restrictions being placed by countries like the United States on one region like South Africa not only ineffective, but travel apartheid. The Omicron variant is already in 24 countries around the world, and as it turns out, it appears it didn’t originate in South Africa anyway. The Netherlands had cases a week before two flights arrived from South Africa carrying the virus. Nine cases were linked to a private event in Scotland, days before South Africa announced the existence of the variant. And Nigeria detected its first case in a sample collected weeks before South Africa alerted the world about Omicron. Tracking the Omicron variant’s spread, it’s in the United States now. A fully vaccinated person in the San Francisco area came back from South Africa Nov. 22 and tested positive seven days later. South Korea confirmed the variant in five people linked to international arrivals. And Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates confirmed the first infections in the Persian Gulf region. So far, all symptoms reported have been mild. A reprieve for healthcare workers in ten states who don’t want to take the vaccine. A federal judge blocked the vaccine requirement, saying the agency that issued the rule likely exceeded its authority. That stops the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services from enforcing its healthcare worker mandate until the court can hear legal challenges brought by Missouri, Nebraska, Arkansas, Kansas, Iowa, Wyoming, Alaska, South Dakota, North Dakota and New Hampshire. Well people who don’t like mandates sure aren’t going to like this. The chief of the European Union's executive arm said member nations should consider making vaccinations mandatory, period. The EU-wide vaccination rate stands at 66%. Germany’s new Chancellor, for one, said he’d back a proposal like that. With reporting affected by the Thanksgiving holiday, in the United States cases were down 2%, deaths are down 16%, and hospitalizations are up 15% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since November 23.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Montana, West Virginia, Michigan, and Kentucky.  There are 9,449,555 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Rhode Island 51%, Indiana 47%, Massachusetts 43%, New Hampshire 41%, and Michigan 40%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Koochiching, MO. Nodaway, MO. Shiawassee, MI. Colfax, NM. Sullivan, NH. Jackson, IA. Clay, IL. Neosho, KS. Dunn, WI. And Pope, MN.  There have been at least 782,104 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 72.9%, Rhode Island at 72.6%, and Maine at 72.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41.5%, Wyoming at 45.6%, and Alabama at 46.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 59.4%. Globally, cases were up 10% and deaths were down 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 20,471,414 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 120,441. Germany 71,887. France 49,610. The U.K. 48,374. And Russia 32,837. There have been at least 5,223,657 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for December 1st, 2021. If you’re a non-US citizen coming into the US, prepare for some tougher testing requirements. And no, it doesn’t matter if you’re vaccinated or unvaccinated. Details should be rolled out tomorrow, but one policy being considered is requiring all air travelers to the U.S. be tested within one day of boarding their flight.  Omicron continues to go worldwide. Japan confirmed its first case, a fully vaccinated Namibian diplomat in his 30s who recently arrived from his country. He initially didn’t have any symptoms but has a fever now. And Brazil reported the first case of Omicron in both that country and Latin America; two travelers arriving from South Africa. France also reported its first case yesterday.  In Greece, they’re really getting tough on older folks. Residents over 60 must get vaccinated or face a $114 fine for every month they don’t. That takes effect January 16, and the fines will be added to citizens’ taxes. About a fourth of the country’s total adult population is unvaccinated. Independent advisers to the FDA narrowly endorsed the first antiviral pill for adults at high risk for Covid-19. Some on the panel worried about the treatment's efficacy and risks to pregnant people. But the vote puts molnupiravir on track for FDA approval. One person who voted yes said, "I'm not sure this is really the one we've been waiting for, but it's the one we've got.”  If you’re looking for a reason to get fired, U.S. employers are here to help you. A national survey in mid-November shows most employers already have or will require employees to get vaccinated. So far, only 3% of employers said their mandates have resulted in a spike in resignations. Half even think mandates will help them recruit workers.  With reporting affected by the Thanksgiving holiday, in the United States cases were down 2%, deaths are down 16%, and hospitalizations are up 9% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since November 23.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Montana, West Virginia, Michigan, and Kentucky.  There are 9,419,966 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Indiana 41%, Massachusetts 40%, New Hampshire 36%. Michigan 34%, and Illinois 30%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Koochiching, MO. Nodaway, MO. Shiawassee, MI. Colfax, NM. Sullivan, NH. Jackson, IA. Clay, IL. Neosho, KS. Dunn, WI. And Pope, MN.  There have been at least 780,140 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 72.9%, Rhode Island at 72.5%, and Maine unchanged at 72.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41.5%, Wyoming at 45.5%, and Alabama at 46.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 59.3%. Globally, cases were up 11% and deaths were down 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 20,281,671 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 106,876. Germany 55,880. France 47,177. The U.K. 39,716. And Russia 32,648. There have been at least 5,214,863 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for November 30th, 2021. No matter how the new Omicron variant turns out, the World Health Organization would like to see more globalization when it comes to pandemics. Specifically, some sort of international accord to prevent, prepare, and respond to future outbreaks. A draft resolution stops short of calling for a treaty or legally binding instrument, but some are saying that’s what’s needed. Scientists are hard at work in South Africa trying to assess how well the vaccines work against Omicron. Right now, it’s still unknown how well it can hide from immune defenses primed by vaccines. They’ll not only test AstraZeneca, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines, they’ll also use plasma from recovered patients to gauge the risk of reinfection with Omicron after recovering from previous versions of the virus. Officials in New York City reinstated their mask advisory while indoors, that means places like grocery stores, building lobbies and offices, regardless of vaccination status. Masks are still required for public transit, health care settings, schools, and congregate settings like churches. Omicron has not yet been detected in the city, but officials know it’s only a matter of time. They’re all mandated to get vaccinated, but which federal department do you think has the lowest vaccination rate so far? It’s the US Department of Agriculture at 86.1% according the White House. Next comes the Department of Veterans Affairs at 87.8%, and the Department of the Interior at 88.3%. From the “it doesn’t pay to think you’re clever” department, a couple tried to escape the quarantine in the Netherlands after testing positive. But they got caught and are being held in forced isolation at a hospital. The pair fled the hotel where travelers who tested positive were staying after arriving in Amsterdam from South Africa and hopped a plane to Spain. Military police were there to greet them. With reporting affected by the Thanksgiving holiday, in the United States cases were up 3%, deaths are down 10%, and hospitalizations are up 11% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Montana, West Virginia, Oregon, Michigan, and Kentucky.  There are 9,467,489 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 49%, Massachusetts 47%, Indiana 45%, Michigan 41%, and Illinois 34%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Scurry, TX. Mason, MI. Shiawassee, MI. Nodaway, MO. Houghton, MI. Sullivan, NH. Ionia, MI. Jackson, MI. DeKalb, IN. And Oceana, MI.  There have been at least 776,639 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 72.7%, Rhode Island at 72.2%, and Maine at 72.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 41.5%, Wyoming at 45.3%, and Alabama at 46%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 59%. Globally, cases were up 14% and deaths were down 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 20,242,995 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 69,498. The U.K. 42,583. Germany 42,582. Russia 33,860. And Hungary 27,830.  There have been at least 5,199,349 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest on Omicron and other COVID variants and new hotspots for November 29th, 2021. A lot of fear is being generated around the new coronavirus variant, now called Omicron. So first some good news or at the very least potential good news. The chair of the South African Medical Association, who was one of the first to notice the new variant, said symptoms appear to mild and treatable at home. Fatigue, body aches and headaches, not even a loss of smell or taste and oxygen levels remain normal. Almost half she treated were unvaccinated, hinting the current vaccines are somewhat effective against it. But even symptoms in the unvaccinated have been mild. And if you think she’s alone or lying, Israel’s chief of public health services says the potential for infection with omicron is “very high,” but vaccinated people become only slightly ill. Speaking of very fast spread and very high infections, Omicron is quickly making its way around the world, unhindered by travel bans and restrictions, a tactic that went into place and was generally unsuccessful in keeping out the original virus and its variants. Omicron has been spotted in South Africa, Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, Britain, Israel, Hong Kong, Germany, Austria, and Italy. As mentioned earlier, countries are imposing travel bans amidst the new variant in the hopes that maybe, somehow, this time they’ll work. The United States has done it. Israel is banning the entry of all foreigners. Morocco is suspending all incoming air travel for two weeks. The World Health Organization is urging no, don’t do that because it places a heavy burden on lives and livelihoods, it’s not scientifically based, and it just doesn’t work.   Okay, time to answer the question “Why did the World Health Organization skip a couple of Greek letters when naming the new variant Omicron?” The variant prior to Omicron was Mu, which should be followed by Nu and Xi. Well they didn’t like Nu because it sounds just like the word new. And Xi can’t be used because it’s a common last name in certain countries and the whole point was to not stigmatize any country so…that led to Omicron. If Omicron is your last name, please write your local congressperson.  With reporting affected by the Thanksgiving holiday, in the United States cases were up 4%, deaths are down 10%, and hospitalizations are up 12% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Montana, West Virginia, Oregon, Michigan, and Kentucky.  There are 9,420,095 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 51%, Indiana and Massachusetts 43%, Michigan 41%, and Illinois 32%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Scurry, TX. Mason, MI. Shiawassee, MI. Nodaway, MO. Houghton, MI. Sullivan, NH. Ionia, MI. Jackson, MI. DeKalb, IN. And Oceana, MI.  There have been at least 776,639 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 72.7%, Rhode Island at 72.2%, and Maine at 72.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 41.5%, Wyoming at 45.3%, and Alabama at 46%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 59%. Globally, cases were up 12% and deaths were down 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are once again over 20 million active cases around the world, at 20,159,495. The five countries with the most new cases: Germany 38,444. The U.K. 37,681. Russia 33,548. France 31,648. And the Netherlands 22,133.  There have been at... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 26th, 2021. The news we’ve been dreading, another variant of COVID-19 that is more mutated, more contagious, and more capable of evading the vaccines we have thus far. It’s called B.1.1.529 and it’s been identified in South Africa, Hong Kong, and Botswana. Senior scientists describe it as the worst variant they’d seen since the start of the pandemic with 32 mutations in the spike protein. That’s twice as many as in the Delta variant. Because of the new variant, South Africa has been placed under England’s red list travel restrictions. About 500 to 700 people usually go to the UK from South Africa every day. The ban will also cover flights from Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. Scotland says all arrivals from the countries must self-isolate and take two PCR tests, then starting 4am tomorrow, stay at a managed quarantine hotel. And Israel is banning citizens from traveling to southern Africa and barring the entry of foreign travelers from the region. If you’re still arguing with a friend over which is the better vaccine, Pfizer or Moderna, a large scale study out of Hungary says Moderna beats Pfizer in effectiveness. In fact, so does Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine. Moderna was 88.7% effective in protecting against infection vs Pfizer’s 83.3%, and Moderna was 93.6% effective against COVID mortality vs Pfizer’s 90.6%. As expected, the EU authorized Pfizer’s vaccine for use on kids aged 5 to 11 years old. That means shots are coming to millions of elementary school pupils. Of course, at least one country didn't wait for authorization. Vienna, Austria had already started vaccinating 5 to 11-year-olds.   So with cases surging, ICU’s full, and staff vaccine mandates going into place, surely more healthcare workers are getting fully vaccinated, right? At the moment, as much as 30% of healthcare practitioners remain unvaccinated. HCPs working in children’s hospitals had the highest vaccination rates at 77%, followed by short- and long-term care ACHs at 70.1% and 68.8%, respectively. Critical access hospitals had vaccination rates of just 64%.  In the United States cases were up 20%, deaths are down 10%, and hospitalizations are up 11% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Montana, Kentucky, West Virginia, Oregon, and Michigan. There are 9,401,200 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 54%, Michigan 46%, Massachusetts 42%, Indiana 36%, and Illinois and Maine 31%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Big Horn, MT. Nome Census Area, AK. Scurry, TX. Dodge, MN. Mason, MI. Shiawassee, MI. Bethel Census Area, AK. Crawford, PA. Nodaway, MO. And Goodhue, MN.  There have been at least 775,785 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 72.7%, Rhode Island unchanged at 72.2%, and Maine at 72.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41.5%, Wyoming unchanged at 45.3%, and Alabama at 46%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 59%. Globally, cases were up 16% and deaths were down 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 19,855,847 active cases around the world. With U.S. reporting affected by the Thanksgiving holiday, the five countries with the most new cases: Germany 76,132. The U.K. 47,240. Russia 33,796. France 33,464. And Poland 28,128.  There have been at least 5,181,949 deaths reported as... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 25th, 2021. A human subject is testing a new experimental vaccine. And that human subject is Russian President Vladimir Putin. He’s already fully vaccinated, and he got his booster shot four days ago. But now he’s taken an experimental nasal version of the Sputnik V vaccine. He said so far, he hasn’t experienced any unpleasant effects after taking the nasal vaccine. The U.S. President will require essential, nonresident travelers crossing U.S. land borders, like truck drivers and emergency response officials, to be fully vaccinated starting January 22. That brings the rules for essential travelers in line with rules for leisure travelers that went into place earlier this month. Looking around the world, Slovakia's government approved a two-week national lockdown for both the unvaccinated and vaccinated. People can leave their homes only for limited, specific reasons. The Italian government decided to exclude unvaccinated people from some leisure activities like movies, sporting events, and dining out. Vaccinations were also made mandatory for law enforcement, military and all school employees. Denmark's government is seeking to reintroduce mask mandates in all public places. And Portugal is introducing new pandemic restrictions seven weeks after scrapping almost all of them because of the high vaccination rate. This isn’t going to shock you, but a lot of people don’t follow the public health advice they’re asked to follow. A new survey shows that in England, one in four adults who test positive for COVID do not follow the rules for 10-day self-isolation. And that number is rising, up from 22% who fessed up to that in September.  In the United States cases were up 24%, deaths are down 6%, and hospitalizations are up 9% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Montana, Kentucky, West Virginia, Oregon, and Michigan. There are 9,382,501 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 55%, Michigan and Massachusetts 45%, and Illinois and Indiana 32%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Big Horn, MT. Nome Census Area, AK. Scurry, TX. Dodge, MN. Mason, MI. Shiawassee, MI. Bethel Census Area, AK. Venango, PA. Nodaway, MO. And Goodhue, MN.  There have been at least 773,770 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 72.6%, Rhode Island at 72.2%, and Maine at 72%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41.5%, Wyoming at 45.3%, and Alabama unchanged at 45.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 59%. Globally, cases were up 17% and deaths were up 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 19,654,645 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 103,899. Germany 73,966. The U.K. 43,676. Russia 33,558. And France 32,591.  There have been at least 5,165,169 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 24th, 2021. The EU’s version of the FDA said Merck has put in its request to authorize its coronavirus antiviral, the first pill shown to treat COVID-19. They expect a decision to be made on molnupiravir within weeks. Earlier this month, Britain became the first country in the world to OK the drug. It is just speculation and guesswork, but the World Health Organization's Europe office says its projections show the continent could see another 700,000 deaths in the pandemic by next spring. That means it would top 2 million total. The WHO Europe says boosters should be given as a priority to vulnerable populations, but its own international headquarters is still calling for a moratorium on boosters. It's mask on, mask off depending on where in America you live. Health officials in Oregon announced they’re lifting statewide mask requirements in crowded outdoor settings. It was the first state to reimplement an outdoor mask mandate for both vaccinated and unvaccinated residents. But in Denver they’re renewing a mask mandate for indoor public spaces until January 3, even though 76% of Denver residents have gotten at least one vaccine dose. The Governor of Minnesota has called up the National Guard to help long term care facilities as a huge surge in hospitalizations overwhelms the health care system. About 400 members of the Guard have been training as certified nursing assistants and temporary nursing aides. Only 2% of the state’s ICU beds are available. A lot of people are very up front, even proud of the fact they have refused to get vaccinated. But new research shows there are some who are more than happy to lie about it when it’s convenient. Of those who aren’t vaccinated, 28% would consider lying about their status to eat in a restaurant that has a vaccine mandate. It’s a problem for businesses because they’re increasingly held accountable for verifying vaccination status. That’s added to the fact that 18% of consumers say they’re less likely to patronize a business with a mandate. And a New York survey found 67% of restaurants have lost customers due to the city's vaccine mandate. In the United States cases were up 25%, deaths are down 8%, and hospitalizations are up 8% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Montana, Kentucky, Idaho, North Dakota, and West Virginia. There are 9,329,193 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 56%, Massachusetts 46%, Michigan 44%, Minnesota 32%, and Illinois 31%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Big Horn, MT. Nome Census Area, AK. Scurry, TX. Dodge, MN. Bethel Census Area, AK. Shiawassee, MI. Mason, MI. Pope, MN. Nodaway, MO. And Dickenson, VA. There have been at least 773,770 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 72.6%, Rhode Island at 72.1%, and Maine unchanged at 71.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41.5%, Wyoming unchanged at 45.2%, and Alabama at 45.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 59.2%. Globally, cases were up 16% and deaths were up 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are 19,520,364 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 86,016. Germany 54,268. The U.K. 42,484. Russia 33,996. And France 30,454. There have been at least 5,165,169 deaths reported as Covid-related... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 23rd, 2021. So you’re thinking about getting a booster shot. But you’re also thinking “how long will this one last?” Well the answer is, I know this is a shock, they don’t know. However, a small study out of Northwestern University is claiming neutralizing antibody levels against COVID decreased 25-fold after a booster compared to 10-fold nine months after getting the original doses. So they think the booster might last longer. Germany and Denmark have been added to the list of places the CDC preferred you didn’t go. In fact, 13 European countries were added to the “avoid travel” list in the past four weeks, which brings the total of countries at Level 4 on the list to 76. Fun fact: based on the CDC’s criteria, America would also be on the list of countries they recommend Americans not travel to.  Right alongside the push to get kids vaccinated just happen to be new reports that more kids than ever are getting infected. The American Academy of Pediatrics says Covid-19 cases in children are up 32% from two weeks ago. In fact, they say kids represent more than a fourth of all new cases for the past week.  Just ahead of Monday’s deadline, a source reports more than 90% of federal workers had gotten at least one dose of vaccine. Again, there is no option offered to get regularly tested instead unless they managed to get a medical or religious exemption. Actually, when you count those exemption requests, more than 95% of federal workers are in compliance. Well we told you about Germany being added to the don’t travel list, and someone who probably agrees with that is Germany’s health minister. He’s saying the rapid rise in cases means it's likely everyone in the country who isn't vaccinated will have caught COVID by the end of winter, and some will be dead. Obviously, many, many health experts say that’s not necessarily true.  In the United States cases were up 29%, deaths are down 9%, and hospitalizations are up 6% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Kentucky, and West Virginia.  There are 9,319,803 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 59%, Michigan 47%, Massachusetts 41%, Minnesota 37%, and Illinois 32%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Big Horn, MT. Scurry, TX. Bethel Census Area, AK. Dodge, MN. Mason, MI. Shiawassee, MI. San Juan, NM. Roseau, MN. And Jackson, MI.  There have been at least 772,381 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 72.4%, Rhode Island at 72%, and Maine at 71.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 41.5%, Wyoming at 45.2%, and Alabama at 45.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 59.1%. Globally, cases were up 20% and deaths were up 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 19,404,315 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 74,156. The U.K. 44,917. Germany 40,489. Russia 35,681. And Hungary 27,209.  There have been at least 5,158,635 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 22nd, 2021. In many of our minds, the year 2020 stands out as the most difficult where COVID-19 is concerned. However, in the United States, the number of 2021 coronavirus deaths have surpassed the total for 2020. And that is with the nation’s government and public health leaders having access to vaccines. The number will most definitely rise in the remaining weeks of the year. But the country’s answer is, more vaccine. The FDA and CDC did as expected and expanded eligibility for booster shots to all adults Friday, offering additional protection for all those 18 and above who had their second shot of Pfizer or Moderna at least six months prior. Boosters had already been approved for J&J’s one-dose vaccine, for two months after the primary dose. New and renewed restrictions in several European countries resulted in protests, some of them violent, and some leading to dozens of arrests. These are not small demonstrations, ranging from hundreds of participants in some cities to tens of thousands in Belgium. Few people are wearing masks, political rallies, concerts, and home gatherings have resumed, and people busily shop in crowded marketplaces. This is in Zimbabwe. And the same is happening across much of Africa, which is less than 6% vaccinated. The World Health Organization says infections have been dropping there since July, and Africa makes up just 3% of the global total of COVID-deaths. The Americas account for 46% of them. So seriously, what is going on? Scientists have absolutely no clue. Some say it’s the continent’s relative youth, some say the populations are more spread out and are outdoors more, some say it’s genetics or past infections with parasitic diseases. For those who still think we should find out how all this happened, US government documents newly released under the Freedom of Information Act show the Wuhan Institute of Virology was studying coronaviruses found in bats from Laos and Yunnan, China in the months before the outbreak. This means the bat origin and lab escape origin theories might both be true. US-funded researchers were sending viral samples from the bats to the lab according to leaked emails between EcoHealth Alliance and US government funders. Records of both genetic sequences were removed from an online database at the Institute in September of 2019. In the United States cases were up 29%, deaths are down 9%, and hospitalizations are up 5% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Montana, West Virginia, Kentucky, and Idaho. There are 9,336,118 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 61%, Michigan 45%, Massachusetts 39%, Minnesota 37%, and Illinois 31%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Big Horn, MT. Scurry, TX. Bethel Census Area, AK. Dodge, MN. Mason, MI. Shiawassee, MI. San Juan, NM. Roseau, MN. And Jackson, MI. There have been at least 771,118 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 72.4%, Rhode Island at 72%, and Maine at 71.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41.5%, Wyoming at 45.2%, and Alabama at 45.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 58.9%. Globally, cases were up 18% and deaths were up 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15. There are 19,908,663 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 19th, 2021. It’s known for its festive Christmas markets but health officials in Germany say they could be heading for a terrible Christmas. New measures were approved yesterday to rein in record infections and some German states are considering mandatory vaccinations for some professional groups like medical staff. Again, it is good to be Pfizer. The U.S. government will pay the company $5.29 billion for 10 million courses of its potential COVID treatment if regulators authorize it. That’s about $529 per course if you’re doing the math. The President said in a statement the treatments “will be easily accessible and free,” although the taxpayers just paid $5.29 billion. Still, these treatments have been repeatedly called potential game changers.  Unvaccinated Army soldiers are starting to get their marching orders. They will not be allowed to re-enlist or be promoted. This also applies to reservists and National Guardsmen. 28% of the entire U.S. Army is not yet fully vaccinated.  New research shows the pandemic has brought on an "emerging public health concern" of people losing their sense of smell. Like, for a long time. The estimate is between 700,000 and 1.6 million people in the US who had COVID have lost or had a change in their sense of smell that has lasted more than 6 months, and that’s likely an underestimate. They say some may never regain it. Why is the sense of smell lost? Scientists have no idea.  If you don’t like needles or humans, have we got a story for you. A Canadian startup has built a vaccine robot that can dose you in the arm without a needle or any human help. You use an app to register with the robot, prove your identity by holding an ID card in front of its camera, the robot arm retrieves the vaccine and uses a sensor to find your arm, then injects the vaccine using a brief, high-pressure jet of fluid with no needle. If it detects you have COVID at the time, it starts yelling Danger Will Robinson. Okay that last part isn’t true.  In the United States cases were up 23%, deaths are down 13%, and hospitalizations are down 1% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Montana, West Virginia, Idaho, and Kentucky.  There are 9,279,227 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 45%, Michigan 37%, Minnesota 36%. Rhode Island 32%. And New Mexico 31%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Big Horn, MT. Dodge, MN. San Juan, NM. Scurry, TX. Grant, NM. Mason, MI. Wadena, MN. Roosevelt, MT. And Shiawassee, MI.  There have been at least 768,684 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 72.2%, Rhode Island unchanged at 71.8%, and Maine unchanged at 71.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41.5%, Wyoming unchanged at 45%, and Alabama at 45.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 58.9%. Globally, cases were up 15% and deaths were flat over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 19,646,839 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 99,146. Germany 64,164. The U.K. 46,807. Russia 37,374. And Poland 24,882.   There have been at least 5,131,160 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 18th, 2021. The US administration was counting on making businesses their enforcers for vaccination mandates. But the Occupational Safety and Health Administration is suspending said enforcement as ordered by the courts. OSHA had originally given employers with more than 100 employees until January 4 to comply under threat of thousands of dollars in fines. U.S. taxpayers are paying drugmakers billions of dollars to scale up domestic production, but not for the U.S. It’s to ship out to other countries that have had poor access to vaccines. The U.S. has been criticized by the World Health Organization for moving ahead with booster shots when many countries have not had enough initial doses. Looks like we might have to re-set our list of which states are most fully vaccinated, because they might change the meaning of fully vaccinated. The U.S. is considering that and several European nations are already moving toward not counting you as fully vaccinated unless you’ve had a second shot of J&J or a third shot of Pfizer and Moderna. For example, by December 15, anyone over 65 in France needs a booster to revalidate their vaccination pass. And in Austria, full vaccination status expires after nine months from your last dose.  How is the child vaccination effort going? The White House says about 10% of eligible kids aged 5 to 11 have gotten a dose of Pfizer since it was approved for them. That was about two weeks ago. It's more than three times faster than the adult vaccination rate when they first became available. Do you ever wonder if other people have been worrying about the same things you’ve been worrying about during the pandemic? A 19-country study of global helplines has revealed what most people have had anxiety over. Mostly, it’s been fear of infection, loneliness, and concerns about overall physical health. Calls about relationship and money problems, as well as suicide-related issues were less prevalent than before the pandemic. The researchers were struck by how the worries were the same across nations.  In the United States cases were up 23%, deaths are down 13%, and hospitalizations are down 3% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Montana, West Virginia, Idaho, and Kentucky.  There are 9,239,157 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 38%, Michigan 35%, Minnesota 34%. Rhode Island 30%. And Illinois and New Mexico 28%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Big Horn, MT. Dodge, MN. San Juan, NM. Scurry, TX. Grant, NM. Mason, MI. Wadena, MN. Roosevelt, MT. And Shiawassee, MI.  There have been at least 767,432 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 72.2%, Rhode Island at 71.8%, and Maine at 71.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 41.5%, Wyoming at 45%, and Alabama unchanged at 45.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 58.9%. Globally, cases were up 15% and deaths were flat over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 19,470,876 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 104,702. Germany 60,753. The U.K. 38,263. Russia 36,626. And Poland 24,239.   There have been at least 5,122,852 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 17th, 2021. Why is Europe struggling so much? We may have at least a partial answer. A new variant has been detected in several countries there that has some mutations scientists haven’t seen before. It’s called B.1.X and it’s been found in France, the UK, Switzerland, Scotland, and Italy. It’s not known yet if the mutation means it’s as or any more dangerous than Delta.  Yesterday we told you that some states and cities are not waiting on the FDA or CDC and are administering boosters to all adults 18 and over. And here they are. Arkansas, West Virginia, New York City, Colorado, California, and New Mexico. So far, about 15% of those who are fully vaccinated have also gotten a booster shot. Things are not going well in Russia at all, but yesterday it announced it will resume allowing air travel to Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, Costa Rica, and Mongolia starting Dec. 1. Remaining restrictions will also be lifted on flights to Cuba, Mexico, and Qatar. In all, Russia’s resumed flights with over 60 countries. Cases and deaths there are at record highs with a full vaccination rate at less than 40%. A second set of states has filed a federal lawsuit challenging the administration's vaccine mandate for health care workers in the US. This one is on behalf of 12 states, added to a previous suit involving 10 states. The new ones are Louisiana, Montana, Arizona, Alabama, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Utah, and West Virginia. If standing outside in the freezing cold for hours packed in with a throng of people is your thing, good news for you. Times Square will be open for celebrations this New Year’s Eve, though only the vaccinated will be allowed access to the area. In 2021 there was a virtual ball-dropping celebration only. In the United States cases were up 18%, deaths are down 15%, and hospitalizations are down 4% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Montana, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Idaho.  There are 9,235,181 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 32%, Minnesota and Michigan 31%, New Mexico 29%, and Rhode Island 28%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Scotts Bluff, NE. Nome Census Area, AK. Dodge, MN. Big Horn, MT. San Juan, NM. Bethel Census Area, AK. Scurry, TX. Wadena, MN. Goodhue, MN. And Grant, NM. There have been at least 765,762 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 72.1%, Rhode Island unchanged at 71.7%, and Maine at 71.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41.2%, Wyoming unchanged at 44.8%, and Alabama unchanged at 45.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 58.8%. Globally, cases were up 13% and deaths were down 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 19,364,712 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 87,133. Germany 39,985. The U.K. 37,243. Russia 36,818. And Turkey 25,101.   There have been at least 5,114,140 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 16th, 2021.A couple of openings to tell you travelers about. India started letting fully vaccinated foreign tourists enter the country on regular commercial flights. Infections are falling and vaccinations rising there. Visitors haven’t been allowed in since March 2020. Or maybe Cambodia’s more to your liking. It reopened its borders to fully vaccinated travelers two weeks earlier than planned and has one of the world's highest rates of immunization. But here’s where not to go, especially if you’re using the CDC as your travel agent. The agency has advised against travel to the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Iceland because of rising cases there. However, they moved some countries to the level one low risk category, including Japan, India, Pakistan, Liberia, Gambia, and Mozambique. Without waiting for authorization from the FDA or a recommendation from the CDC, all adults in New York City are now allowed to get booster shots. Three states, California, Colorado and New Mexico, are also shoving the federal government aside and taking matters into their own hands. COVID sure hurt the melting pot on U.S. college campuses. International student enrollment fell by 15% or 1.1 million students during the 2020-2021 academic year. That’s the biggest drop since the late 1940s. Travel restrictions and delayed visa processing were largely to blame.   Amazon agreed to pay $500,000 and be monitored by California officials to make sure that from now on, it notifies workers within a day about new coronavirus cases. It will also notify local health agencies within 48 hours. The half-million will go to enforce the state’s consumer protection laws. All of this is because of California’s “right-to-know” law that took effect last year.  In the United States cases were up 14%, deaths are down 14%, and hospitalizations are down 7% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Montana, Kentucky, Alaska, and Ohio.  There are 9,237,610 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Rhode Island 34%, Michigan 22%, Minnesota 20%, and New Mexico and South Dakota 15%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Scotts Bluff, NE. San Juan, NM. Grant, NM. Scurry, TX. Big Horn, MT. Wadena, MN. Bethel Census Area, AK. Otsego, MI. And Washburn, WI.  There have been at least 764,363 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 72%, Rhode Island at 71.7%, and Connecticut and Maine at 71.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 41.2%, Wyoming unchanged at 44.8%, and Alabama at 45.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 58.8%. Globally, cases were up 12% and deaths were down 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 19,303,850 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 70,823. The U.K. 39,705. Russia 38,420. Germany 30,483. And Turkey 23,852.   There have been at least 5,106,593 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 15th, 2021. Austria has locked down…at least for the unvaccinated. We’ve seen it all before, new infections are surging, and ICUs are strained. In fact, Austria has one of Europe's highest infection rates and is the first to reinstate restrictions on daily movements. Austria has one of the lowest vaccination rates in western Europe at 65%, but that’s well above the United States’ 58-59%.  More vaccines are destined for the arms of children. Israel approved giving it to kids 5 to 11. That’s expected to start next week. Australia will likely start administering the shots for kids under 12 in January. They’ve already vaccinated 57.7% of children between 12 and 15. And of course the U.S. approved the vaccine for kids 5 to 11 earlier this month.  A company in England, Emergex, will soon start clinical trials of a second-generation vaccine that’s a skin patch that uses T-cells to kill infected cells. The hope is it can offer longer-lasting immunity than current vaccines. The antibodies in current vaccines stick to the virus and stop it from infecting cells, but T-cells find and destroy infected cells.  A massive real-world study compared how fast three vaccines lose their effectiveness over eight months. The good news is, they found while protection from infection may decline, protection against death seems to hold up. Johnson & Johnson’s single-dose vaccine apparently showed the greatest decline in protection. Moderna performed the best, with Pfizer in the middle.  Can you unvaccinate yourself? Well, the short answer is no. But vaccine “detoxes” are making the rounds on the internet. The pitch is you can get vaccinated to meet mandates, then cleanse yourself of the vaccine by bathing in a mixture of baking soda, Epsom salts, and the cleaning agent borax. Experts say all you’re going to do is irritate your skin and eyes. In the United States cases were up 11%, deaths are down 16%, and hospitalizations are down 8% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Alaska, Wyoming, Kentucky, Montana, and Idaho.  There are 9,214,324 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Rhode Island 31%, Michigan 23%, Minnesota 20%, New Mexico 17%, and South Dakota 16%. The highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Scotts Bluff, NE. Wadena, MN. Humboldt, NV. Grant, NM. San Juan, NM. Scurry, TX. Dodge, MN. Mille Lacs, MN, and Goodhue, MN.  There have been at least 763,092 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 72%, Rhode Island at 71.6%, and Maine at 71.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41.1%, Wyoming at 44.8%, and Alabama at 45.3%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 58.5%. Globally, cases were up 12% and deaths were down 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are once again over 19 million active cases around the world, at 19,231,229. The five countries with the most new cases: Russia 38,823. The U.K. 36,517. Germany 29,048. The United States 24,193. And Turkey 21,624.   There have been at least 5,100,195 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 12th, 2021. It is just not looking good in Europe. Germany had a record-high number of daily cases yesterday as new measures are being considered. One of the country's top virologists warns another 100,000 could die in the next few months if the vaccination rate doesn't quickly accelerate. To the south, in Austria, that country’s chancellor is stepping up threats of lockdowns for the unvaccinated as new cases soar. At least one province is definitely taking that step next week. Their rate of new cases is three times that of Germany’s. Russia’s preparing new restrictions that will only allow vaccinated people with QR codes to access most public places, shops, transportation, and restaurants. Fewer than 40% of Russians are fully vaccinated, which combines with lax public attitudes and government’s reluctance to toughen restrictions in making the situation there worse.  Denmark, also headed for at least a limited lockdown. The Dutch public health institute announced the highest daily tally of new cases since the pandemic began, and this is in a country where more than 84% of the adult population is fully vaccinated. A common question being asked now is why, in places like Denmark, and in states like Vermont where vaccination rates are over 70%, are cases and breakouts so bad? It’s a fair question. Most experts claim it’s the start of a seasonal spike in places with cooler weather. Or that vaccines given early in 2020 are waning. Or maybe people are gathering indoors without masks now. You starting to get the idea nobody knows? Either way, the hope is that because of high vaccination rates, these case surges won’t lead to out of control hospitalizations and deaths. In the United States cases were up 7%, deaths are down 13%, and hospitalizations are down 12% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Alaska, Wyoming, Oregon, Kentucky, and Idaho.  There are 9,183,252 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Utah 29%, New Mexico 20%, Arizona and Michigan 15%, and Colorado and Minnesota 14%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lincoln, WV. Nome Census Area, AK. Bethel Census Area, AK. Humboldt, NV. Scotts Bluff, NE. Grant, NM. San Juan, NM. Fayette, AL. Carbon, UT. And Wadena, MN. There have been at least 759,636 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 71.8%, Rhode Island at 71.5%, and Connecticut and Maine at 71.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41.1%, Wyoming at 44.6%, and Alabama unchanged at 45.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 58.5%. Globally, cases were up 8% and deaths were down 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 18,982,709 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Germany 50,377. The United States 43,596. The U.K. 42,408. Russia 40,759. And Turkey 24,898.   There have been at least 5,079,013 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 11th, 2021. So far, the White House is very happy with the whole get kids vaccinated thing. They say it’s off to a strong start, but they worry that so was the adult vaccination effort, then it peaked and lost momentum. About 900,000 kids aged 5 to 11 will have gotten their first dose in their first week of eligibility. The World Health Organization gave us some bad news, coronavirus deaths rose by 10% in Europe in the past week. But they also gave us some good news, Europe is the only region in the world where cases and deaths are steadily increasing. WHO's Europe director warned if more actions aren’t taken, the continent could see another 500,000 deaths by February. A coalition of 10 states sued the federal government to try to block a vaccine requirement for health care workers. The suit contends the requirement threatens the jobs of millions of health care workers and could “exacerbate an alarming shortage” in health care fields, particularly in rural areas. Some states are also suing over the mandate that federal contractors’ workers be vaccinated, as well as businesses with more than 100 employees being mandated to make their workers get vaccinated or wear masks and get tested weekly.  It's amazing what a difference one little gene can make. In 2020, studies showed there were genetic differences that resulted in higher risk of severe COVID. Now researchers at Oxford have pinpointed one gene, LZTFL1, that’s mostly involved. It’s a gene more common in the ethnic communities that have been hardest hit, and it’s very active in the layer of cells lining the airways and lungs. This unlucky gene reduces lung cells’ ability to repair damaged tissue, and it causes more copies of the two proteins that allow the virus to infect cells to be made.  It might be a second blue Christmas in Germany, with its famous Christmas markets potentially being closed for a second holiday season in a row. Soaring cases in Germany are a very real threat to those markets, which would be opening in about a week. 67% of Germans are fully vaccinated, far more than the United States.   In the United States cases were up 7%, deaths are down 13%, and hospitalizations are down 12% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since November 3.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Alaska, Wyoming, Oregon, Kentucky, and Idaho.  There are 9,165,878 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Utah 29%, New Mexico 20%, Arizona and Michigan 15%, and Colorado and Minnesota 14%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lincoln, WV. Nome Census Area, AK. Bethel Census Area, AK. Humboldt, NV. Scotts Bluff, NE. Grant, NM. San Juan, NM. Fayette, AL. Carbon, UT. And Wadena, MN. There have been at least 758,877 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 71.8%, Rhode Island unchanged at 71.4%, and Maine at 71.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41.1%, Wyoming at 44.5%, and Alabama at 45.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 58.5%. Globally, cases were up 10% and deaths were up 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 18,837,281 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 94,376. Germany 45,416. The U.K. 39,329. Russia 38,058. And Turkey 27,259.   There have been at least 5,072,046 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 10th, 2021. Pfizer’s ready for booster shots for all adults, but are U.S. regulators? The request is in to allow anyone 18 and older to get boosters of the Pfizer vaccine. Up to now just older Americans and groups especially vulnerable to the virus have had access to dose number three. The FDA says it will move quickly on the expansion if warranted.  A big change in Britain. All health care staff who work with the public will now have to be vaccinated starting in April, even if that means thousands of desperately needed healthcare workers might quit their jobs. More than 100,000 health workers are currently unvaccinated there. Quick, do you know how many different COVID vaccines there are now? Well, if you’re just counting the ones approved for emergency use by the World Health Organization, there’s now eight. The latest one is called COVAXIN, and it’s been assessed for quality, safety, and efficacy. It sure is good to be the pharmaceutical company Merck. The U.S. government is going to buy another $1 billion worth of its COVID-19 pill. That’s after a $1.2 billion purchase agreed to in June. The drug, called molnupiravir, has been shown to halve the chances of dying or being hospitalized for those most at risk of severe COVID if given early in the illness.  Every desperate incentive to get people vaccinated has been offered so this will come as no surprise. A brothel in Austria is offering a free, uh, “fling” with the prostitute of your choice if you get the shot right there at the bordello. The only drawback is you have to be in the mood on Mondays from 4 to 10pm. One happy customer said, “I would have gotten vaccinated anyway.” Uh huh.  In the United States cases were up 5%, deaths are down 15%, and hospitalizations are down 13% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since October 25.  The five states that had the most daily deaths per 100,000 are Wyoming, Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and West Virginia.  There are 9,153,680 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Utah 40%, New Mexico 21%, Arizona 13%, and Colorado and Nebraska 12%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lincoln, WV. Nome Census Area, AK. Humboldt, NV. Bethel Census Area, AK. Grant, NM. Wadena, MN. San Juan, NM. Carbon, UT. Roosevelt, MT. And Holt, NE. There have been at least 757,230 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 71.7%, Rhode Island at 71.4%, and Connecticut at 71.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41.1%, Wyoming unchanged at 44.4%, and Alabama at 45.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 58.4%. Globally, cases were up 10% and deaths were up 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 18,721,788 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 72,358. Russia 39,160. The U.K. 33,117. Germany 28,986. And Turkey 28,662.   There have been at least 5,063,295 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 9th, 2021. Citizens in Russia went back to work yesterday after a mandated, nine-day break to help cope with the surge of cases there. But they’re doing so as the record-breaking surge of infections and deaths continue. In fact, statistics show the work stoppage had no effect on easing cases.  Meanwhile Japan reported no daily deaths from COVID Sunday for the first time in 15 months, and infections are rapidly declining there. Japan was hit by several waves, including delta last summer. Cases started falling in September. Experts attribute it to vaccinations, widespread mask wearing, and disinfectant use. Also, Britain had a decline in cases reported between November 2nd and 8th of 16.6% compared with the previous seven days. 57 more people died, meaning that seven-day total was up 8.2%. But declines in the number of deaths usually lag behind declines in cases. Get ready for schools to teach reading, writing, and vaccination. The White House wants local school districts to host clinics that teach parents the benefits of vaccination, then vaccinate the kids. Federal officials are reminding school districts they can tap into billions of dollars in federal coronavirus relief money to stand up these efforts. Yesterday we told you about the great Big Bird controversy. Today another story in the utter silliness column as Northern Ireland's health minister is suing Van Morrison for singing songs critical of the handling of the pandemic there. The “Brown Eyed Girl” singer’s lawyer says “the words used by him related to a matter of public interest and constituted fair comment.” In the United States cases were flat, deaths are down 19%, and hospitalizations are down 13% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since October 25.  The five states that have the most deaths per million are Mississippi, Alabama, New Jersey, Louisiana, and New York. There are 9,166,601 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Utah 38%, New Mexico 20%, Colorado 15%, Nebraska 14%, and Arizona 12%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Lincoln, WV. Bethel Census Area, AK. Park, MT. Wadena, MN. Grant, NM. Carbon, UT. San Juan, NM. Rolette, ND. And Coos, NH. There have been at least 755,624 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 71.7%, Rhode Island unchanged at 71.3%, and Connecticut at 71.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41.1%, Wyoming unchanged at 44.4%, and Alabama at 45.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 58.4%. Globally, cases were up 7% and deaths were flat over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 18,652,346 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 50,809. Russia 39,400. The U.K. 32,322. Turkey 27,824. And Germany 20,580.  There have been at least 5,055,359 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 8th, 2021. Things have gotten stricter in Los Angeles. One of the strictest vaccine mandates has gone into effect today. Proof of vaccination is required for entry into a wide variety of businesses. Restaurants, malls, theaters – both live and movie, nail places, hair places, gyms, yoga studios, museums, convention centers, and the list goes on. First offense gets a business a warning, but fines could later run from $1,000 to $5,000. The US is pushing forward with a new air travel policy that will make many foreign would-be visitors ineligible to enter the country. Today, fully vaccinated foreign travelers can enter. But here’s the problem. The vaccines have to have been among those authorized by the FDA or that got an emergency use listing from the World Health Organization. Anyone who got, for example, Russia’s Sputnik vaccine, used in 70 countries worldwide, are out of luck. More support for the old trope that you’re likely to get sick while in a hospital. Federal and state records show that more than 10,000 patients were diagnosed with COVID in a U.S. hospital last year after they were admitted for something else. Plus, about 21% of the patients who got COVID in the hospital from April to September last year died, compared to only 8% of other Medicare patients who died in the hospital during that time of non-COVID issues. Amazingly, Tonga has recorded its first COVID case. In late October, a fully vaccinated passenger from a Christchurch repatriation flight tested positive while in hotel quarantine. Tonga’s enforced quarantine for anyone entering the country since early 2020. All of Tonga is now in lockdown for at least seven days with a curfew.  The vaccine debate has officially reached peak silliness. A purely fictional costumed kids’ character, Big Bird, was vaccinated, which of course cannot be true. He tweeted, "My wing is feeling a little sore, but it'll give my body an extra protective boost that keeps me and others healthy." That was met by criticism from some politicians aimed at the fictional bird costume. So we have people who aren’t real arguing about things that aren’t real. Welcome to COVID in America.   In the United States cases were flat, deaths are down 19%, and hospitalizations are down 13% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since October 25.  The five states that have the most deaths per million are Mississippi, Alabama, New Jersey, Louisiana, and New York. There are 9,228,410 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Utah 39%, New Mexico 20%, Nebraska 15%, Colorado 14%, and Arizona 12%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Lincoln, WV. Bethel Census Area, AK. Park, MT. Wadena, MN. Grant, NM. Carbon, UT. San Juan, NM. Rolette, ND. And Coos, NH. There have been at least 754,429 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 71.6%, Rhode Island at 71.3%, and Connecticut and Maine at 71%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 41.1%, Wyoming at 44.4%, and Alabama at 45%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 58.2%. Globally, cases were up 6% and deaths were down 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 18,704,978 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Russia 39,165. The U.K. 30,305. Turkey 25,304. The United States 23,165. And Germany 20,701.  There have been at least... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 5th, 2021. As we reported yesterday, over 750,000 American lives have been lost to COVID. No other even in the country’s history, including the four-year-long Civil War, has generated more death and loss. 750,000 is also more than the populations of Vermont, Wyoming, or Alaska, which means we’ve lost the equivalent of an entire state.  The World Health Organization is getting increasingly concerned about Europe. The continent has seen a more than 50% jump in cases in the last month. It’s become the epicenter of the pandemic even though there’s plenty of vaccine. Inexplicably, poorer countries with less than 1% of the world's vaccines like Africa and Southeast Asia saw cases fall 9% last week. Britain is first to grant conditional authorization to the first pill shown to successfully treat COVID, manufactured by Merck. It’s for adults 18 and older who’ve tested positive and have at least one risk factor for severe disease like obesity or heart disease. The regime is four pills twice a day for five days. We’re heading into flu season and flu shot season, so you might be wondering, is it safe to get the COVID vaccine and a flu shot at the same time. Well, the World Health Organization says yes, and that when you do, it doesn’t compromise the effectiveness of either. It’s still a major and deadly health issue, but a new poll suggests Americans are just about done with COVID as a political issue. The Reuters poll shows only 12% of U.S. adults rated public health issues as a top national priority. That’s down from 20% in February. What do they care about now? Inflation, economic growth, and supply chain issues that are leaving some shelves noticeably bare.  In the United States cases were down 6%, deaths are down 18%, and hospitalizations are down 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since October 25.  The five states that have the most deaths per million are Mississippi, Alabama, New Jersey, Louisiana, and New York. There are 9,220,830 active cases in the United States. The five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Mexico 19%, Vermont 15%, Colorado 14%, Nebraska 11%, and Arizona and New Hampshire 9%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Park, MT. Grant, NM. Goshen, WY. Wadena, MN. Inyo, CA. Roosevelt, MT. Rolette, ND. San Juan, NM. And Carbon, UT.  There have been at least 751,554 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 71.4%, Rhode Island at 71.1%, and Connecticut at 70.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41%, Wyoming at 44.2%, and Alabama at 44.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 58.1%. Globally, cases were up 6% and deaths were up 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 18,459,078 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 81,033. Russia 40,217. The U.K. 37,269. Germany 35,662. And Turkey 29,482.  There have been at least 5,029,033 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 4th, 2021. A new policy for the U.S. puts the burden of vaccination on employers. A temporary emergency rule mandates that businesses that employ 100 or more people make their employees get vaccinated or test them regularly. It’s the first time a federal standard deemed a respiratory virus an occupational hazard outside of health care. Some unknowns remain, such as how employers are supposed to enforce the mandate. There’s concern from England’s deputy chief medical officer that too many people think the pandemic is over. He says there are hard months to come in the winter. He pointed out the current increasing numbers of deaths showed infections are penetrating into older age groups. Colorado is experiencing its worst COVID surge in a year, so its hospitals have been given permission to turn patients away. Many of those hospitals report being at over 90% capacity. From October 3 to yesterday, the state has seen an almost 50% increase in virus hospitalizations.  So many reasons you don’t want to be in charge of a COVID response. In the Philippines, the President said local government officials will be punished if they fall behind their targets for vaccinations. He didn’t say exactly what that punishment would be but did say there’s no reason with supplies in hand vaccinations can’t be ramped up. The Philippines has fully immunized only a little over a third of its population. A COVID related scandal in the NFL. Green Bay Quarterback Aaron Rodgers tested positive and will miss one, maybe two games. The scandal part is he had said he’d been immunized, but apparently that didn’t mean he’d been vaccinated. Rodgers pursued homeopathic treatment to raise his antibody levels and sought an exemption from COVID-19 protocols, which was denied. Critics are saying he’s been less than transparent about his vaccination status.  In the United States cases were down 8%, deaths are down 18%, and hospitalizations are down 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since October 25.  There are 9,218,010 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Vermont and New Mexico 18%, Colorado 15%, New Hampshire 14%, and Maine 8%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Park, MT. Grant, NM. Goshen, WY. Inyo, CA. Carbon, UT. Montrose, CO. Emery, UT. Rolette, ND. And Humboldt, NV.  There have been at least 750,410 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 71.4%, Rhode Island at 71%, and Connecticut at 70.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 41%, Wyoming at 44.1%, and Alabama at 44.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 58.1%. The top five countries that had a 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people; Taiwan up 3%, Jamaica 2%, and The Philippines, Pakistan, and Ukraine 1%.  Globally, cases were up 6% and deaths were up 6% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 18,338,443 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 76,526. Russia 39,008. The U.K. 33,699. Turkey 29,796. And Ukraine 19,455.  There have been at least 5,021,129 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 3rd, 2021. And now parents have a big decision to make. The Pfizer vaccine was given final clearance by U.S. regulators for children ages 5 to 11. Distribution can begin immediately. And those shots might be administered at doctor’s offices, pharmacies, or even schools. The formula is one-third the dose of the adult shot. Eastern Europe is still the area to watch. Russia's reported record daily infections or deaths almost every day for the last month. A nationwide non-working period runs until at least November 7. Around 35% of that nation is fully vaccinated. Romania reported a record daily number of deaths yesterday with 37% vaccinated. And Bulgaria, where 25% are vaccinated, also had its highest daily pandemic death toll yesterday, as did Croatia. Novavax has a customer for its two-dose vaccine. Indonesia has given the world's first emergency use authorization for it. The Novavax vaccine uses a different technology than the mRNA method other shots use and doesn't require extremely cold storage. The hope is it will be a big player for poorer, developing nations. They said they’d do it, and they did. 9,000 New York City municipal workers were put on unpaid leave after refusing to comply with the city’s vaccine mandate. There is no option for weekly testing. The unvaccinated represent about 9% of the city’s total municipal workers. But 12,000 more unvaccinated workers are waiting on a ruling on their requests for medical or religious exemptions. So the total placed on leave could reach up to 21,000. Another study of white-tailed deer suggests they harbor widespread coronavirus infections. Up to 80% of the Iowa deer population may carry the disease, with a rate of infection effectively 50 times worse than in humans. The good news is, they got it from us, but there’s no evidence to show we can get it from them. Plus, they’re really good at social distancing.  In the United States cases were down 8%, deaths are down 18%, and hospitalizations are down 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since October 25.  There are 9,220,239 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Mexico 19%, New Hampshire and Colorado 14%, Vermont 13%, and South Dakota and Arizona 5%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Park, MT. Grant, NM. Goshen, WY. Inyo, CA. Carbon, UT. Montrose, CO. Emery, UT. Rolette, ND. And Humboldt, NV.  There have been at least 748,173 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 71.2%, Rhode Island at 70.9%, and Connecticut at 70.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 41%, and Wyoming and Idaho at 43.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated remains 58%. There were only four countries that had a 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people; Taiwan up 3%, Bangladesh and Oceana 2%, and Indonesia 1%.  Globally, cases were up 2% and deaths were up 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 18,269,994 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 59,288. Russia 39,008. The U.K. 33,865. Turkey 29,796. And Ukraine 19,455.  There have been at least 5,011,786 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 2nd, 2021. Another horrific milestone has been crossed. The global death toll from COVID-19 has now topped 5 million people. This has happened in less than two years, and claimed victims from every corner of the globe, every color, every nationality, in both poor and wealthy nations. In fact the US, EU, Britain and Brazil — all upper-middle- or high-income countries — account for one-eighth of the world’s population but nearly half of all reported deaths.  The FDA is delaying their decision on Moderna's vaccine for 12- to 17-year-olds as they study the rare risk of heart inflammation. The company has been told the review could last until January. Moderna argues more than 1.5 million adolescents around the world have gotten its vaccine and the number of heart inflammation reports “does not suggest an increased risk.” We’re hearing more and more about breakthrough infections but what about severe cases and even deaths from those breakthroughs? Figures in England show 4,500 fully vaccinated people died between January and September, most since the start of August. 10,000 additional fatalities were seen among people who’d gotten one jab.  Canada’s chief medical officers say the general population doesn’t need booster shots yet. They say they’ll keep watching the situation but right now, there’s no evidence of widespread waning of protection in those who’ve been vaccinated. Despite the advice, some provinces and territories are already administering boosters or plan to. Even though many people are still scared of it, experts have been impressed with the performance of mRNA vaccines and are now contemplating additional future applications of it. For instance, a universal vaccine that would work across all four strains of flu that are always mutating, a vaccine against cancer that teaches the immune system to recognize mutations before they occur, a better vaccine against malaria, which still kills a half a million people annually – mostly babies and children, and a vaccine for HIV that induces antibodies to extinguish HIV before it takes hold. In the United States cases were down 13%, deaths are down 12%, and hospitalizations are down 17% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since October 25.  There are 9,273,656 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 28%, Vermont 26%, New Mexico 20%, Colorado 17%, and Maine 14%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Grant, NM. Carbon, UT. Stark, ND. Goshen, WY. Bethel Census Area, AK. Emery, UT. Rolette, ND. Wabasha, MN. And Montezuma, CO.  There have been at least 746,977 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 71.2%, Rhode Island at 70.9%, and Connecticut at 70.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 41%, Wyoming at 43.9%, and Alabama at 44.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 58%. Only one country had a 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people; Thailand up 1%. Globally, cases were up 7% and deaths were up 10% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 18,277,445 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 45,373. Russia 40,993. The U.K. 37,877. Turkey 23,948. And Ukraine 17,430.  There have been at least 5,005,401 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for November 1st, 2021. If you think it’s important, for science and public health and safety reasons, to actually know how this COVID-19 pandemic started, you may as well forget it. U.S. intelligence officials said they can’t conclude the origin. They don’t know if it was from an animal, they don’t know if it was from a lab leak, they don’t know if the virus was genetically engineered…nothing. And that’s where they’ll leave it.    The Mayor there says about 91% of New York City’s municipal workers are vaccinated as today’s mandatory deadline hits, a leap up from 83% Friday. The 9% who haven’t will go on unpaid leave starting today, which will create a corresponding shortage of police, fire, and EMS workers. Dramatic reunions at Sydney airport as fully vaccinated Australians were allowed to fly home and stay home for the first time in 583 days. There was a lot to catch up on as countless weddings, funerals, and births had been missed. Wider lockdown restrictions are expected to be lifted for all residents December 1.  A health official there says China’s latest COVID-19 outbreak is developing rapidly. Authorities are being extra vigilant at ports of entry as infections boom in a northeastern border city. That was caused by the virus arriving from abroad. While the rest of the world figures out how to co-exist with COVID, China is maintaining its zero tolerance policy toward it.  Congratulations to the word “Vax,” the Oxford English Dictionary’s word of the year. Last year, the company said it was impossible to sum up 2020 in one word. But this year, they say the shorthand for vaccine “injected itself into the bloodstream of the English language. It’s clear the language of vaccines is changing how we talk – and think – about public health, community and ourselves.” In the United States cases were down 13%, deaths are down 12%, and hospitalizations are down 17% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since October 25.  There are 9,342,326 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 34%, Vermont 26%, New Mexico and Maine 20%, and Colorado 17%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Grant, NM. Carbon, UT. Stark, ND. Goshen, WY. Bethel Census Area, AK. Emery, UT. Wabasha, MN. Montezuma, CO. And Inyo, CA.  There have been at least 745,805 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 71.2%, Rhode Island at 70.9%, and Connecticut at 70.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41%, Wyoming at 43.9%, and Alabama at 44.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 58%. There were only four countries with a 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people; Ethiopia up 3%, Indonesia 2%, and India and Oceana 1%. Globally, cases were up 8% and deaths were up 8% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 18,320,240 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Russia 40,993. The U.K. 38,009. Turkey 23,948. The United States 19,975. And Ukraine 17,430.  There have been at least 4,999,456 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 29th, 2021. As regular listeners probably know, rates of cases, hospitalizations and deaths have gone down significantly in the US since Delta peaked in September. But now health experts have a problem. Complacency and the believe it’s all over. Winter is coming, many kids still can’t get vaccinated, and the holidays mean lots of gatherings. Plus, many believe vaccination rates need be around 80-85% of adults – and we’re a long way from that.  Researchers think a cheap, generic anti-depressant could reduce the risk of severe COVID by almost one third in people at high risk. The drug is fluvoxamine, sold under the brand name Luvox. It’s mostly used to treat obsessive compulsive disorder and depression, but it also lowers inflammatory molecules called cytokines that can be triggered by an infection. It may also reduce blood platelets, which could help with the blood clotting often seen in COVID. A 10-day course costs about four bucks. Approve all the vaccines for kids you want, parents still have to be willing to give it to them and a new Kaiser Family Foundation survey shows most aren’t. At least not right away. Only 27% say they’ll vaccinate their kids as soon as possible. The military has been good at following orders. With the vaccination deadline still ahead for all branches, more than 90% of active-duty troops have gotten at least one dose. For the Navy the rate is more than 99%. If service members refuse, commanders have the options of administrative paperwork, nonjudicial punishment, or court-martial. Yet another side-crisis that’s come out of the pandemic…we’ve forgotten how to drive. The government reports the number of U.S. traffic deaths in the first six months of 2021 was the highest since 2006. 20,160 people, which is 18.4% higher than the first half of last year. Behavioral research from March through June also showed speeding and not wearing seat belts is higher than pre-pandemic days. In the United States cases were down 19%, deaths are down 15%, and hospitalizations are down 19% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,355,413 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 50%, Maine 31%, Vermont 27%, and Alaska and Colorado 18%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Boundary, ID. Goshen, WY. Humboldt, NV. Carbon, WY. Fergus, MT. Stark, ND. Carbon, UT. Grant, NM. And Emery, UT. There have been at least 743,358 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 71%, Rhode Island at 70.6%, and Connecticut at 70.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 41%, Idaho at 43.6%, and Wyoming at 43.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 57.5%. The five countries with the largest 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people; Taiwan up 4%, Brazil 2%, and Thailand, South America, and Indonesia 1%. Globally, cases were up 4% and deaths were up 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 15.  There are 18,117,423 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 78,460. Russia 40,096. The U.K. 39,482. Germany 26,610. And Ukraine 26,071. There have been at least 4,979,902 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 28th, 2021. A judge in NY said no, she will not pause a vaccine mandate that starts Friday for city employees. A police union had requested a temporary restraining order. She did however order city officials to appear in court Nov. 12 to defend the vaccine requirement against a union lawsuit. As of Tuesday, 73% of police department personnel had gotten at least one dose, and the fire department’s vaccination rate was 68% as of Wednesday.  Merck said it’s okay with them if other drug makers make its COVID-19 pill. It’s the first pill that’s been shown to treat the condition. The ideas is to help millions of people in poorer countries get access to the drug. And Merck will get no royalties for as long as the World Health Organization says COVID-19 is a global emergency.  The number of new cases there is still pretty bad, but the German parliament isn’t going to extend the “epidemic situation of national scope” status when it expires next month. It will keep certain measures like masking in public places. Leading members said despite the new cases, the situation is different now that about two-thirds of the population has been vaccinated. For some it appears there’s just no such thing as too much vaccine. The CDC updated its guidance for numerous immunocompromised people, saying they can get a booster dose at least six months after their primary vaccinations, which for some would be their fourth shot. In August, the CDC recommended the immunocompromised who got the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine ​​get a third dose, which wasn’t considered a booster.  As Americans argue over the vaccine because they’re so concerned about their health, guess what they’re doing more of. Smoking. For the first time in two decades, cigarette sales went up last year during the pandemic. The timing of the increase suggested cigarettes are among the items people stocked up on, fearing shortages.  In the United States cases were down 23%, deaths are down 17%, and hospitalizations are down 19% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,358,631 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 54%, Maine 32%, Vermont 31%, and Alaska and Colorado 20%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Goshen, WY. Boundary, ID. Nome Census Area, AK. Humboldt, NV. Stark, ND. Fergus, MT. Carbon, WY. Carbon, UT. Bethel Census Area, AK. And Inyo, CA. There have been at least 741,231 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated were again not updated by NPR so remain: Vermont at 70.9%, Rhode Island at 70.4%, and Connecticut at 70.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 41%, Idaho at 43.4%, and Wyoming at 43.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 57.4%. The five countries with the largest 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people; Taiwan up 4%, and New Zealand, Australia, Thailand, and Romania 1%. Globally, cases were down 1% and deaths were down 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since October 22.  There are 18,021,385 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 76,361. The U.K. 43,941. Russia 36,582. Turkey 26,896. And Germany 26,099.  There have been at least 4,971,409 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 27th, 2021. As expected, FDA advisors unanimously voted to endorse the Pfizer vaccine for kids five to 11. Federal authorization could come in the next few days. The pediatric version would be equal to a third of an adult dose. The panel said the benefits outweigh the risks that include a rare heart-related side effect seen in teens and young adults. Things continue to look rough in Eastern Europe. The daily number of deaths in Russia hit another high yesterday even as most Russians stayed home from work this week. Ukraine and Bulgaria also reported record daily death tolls. In addition to closures, Russian authorities have strengthened enforcement of mask mandates. Further to the west, the Belgian government has reimposed some restrictions that were relaxed just a few weeks ago as hospitalizations increased 69%. In the U.S., emergency rooms are slammed, but not with COVID patients. A secondary health crisis caused by the pandemic are all the people who put off seeking care for other issues, but who are now coming in even worse off. Many wind up on stretchers lining hallways for hours with plenty of noise and foot traffic going by.  Here’s a story about at least an attempt to return to normalcy. Louisiana is ending its statewide indoor mask mandate after seeing a sharp decline in new infections. However, the Governor is keeping some masking rules in place for the state’s K-12 schools. LSU said it’s keeping its indoor mask mandate no matter what the state says, and New Orleans indicated it also may not follow the Governor’s lead. A report from the American Psychological Association says stress from the pandemic has people struggling to make even small decisions. Almost a third of adults question even basic day-to-day choices like what to eat or wear. It’s especially a problem for parents and Millennials. And there are problems making big decisions too, with 61% saying the pandemic has made them question how they’ve been living their lives.  In the United States cases were down 22%, deaths are down 11%, and hospitalizations are down 19% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,362,598 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 53%, Maine 31%, Vermont 30%, Rhode Island 19%, and Alaska 18%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Nome Census Area, AK. Goshen, WY. Boundary, ID. Bethel Census Area, AK. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Kenai Peninsula Borough, AK. Fergus, MT. Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK.     Humboldt, NV. And Stark, ND.  There have been at least 738,877 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated were not updated so remain: Vermont at 70.9%, Rhode Island at 70.4%, and Connecticut at 70.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 41%, Idaho at 43.4%, and Wyoming at 43.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 57.4%. The five countries with the largest 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people; Taiwan up 4%, Oceana 2%, and South Korea, Ethiopia, and Australia 1%.  Globally, cases were down 1% and deaths were down 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since October 22.  There are 17,947,016 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 69,634. The U.K. 40,954. Russia 36,446. Turkey 29,643. And Germany 20,955.  There have been at least 4,962,804 deaths reported as... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 26th, 2021. New travel guidance from the US government. Most travelers to the United States are required to be vaccinated, however if you’re from a country that has a shortage of vaccines, you for some reason don’t have to be. Airlines must get contact info on passengers for contact tracing. And starting Nov. 8, all travelers must be tested, even if you’re fully vaccinated, to get on a plane bound for the US.   Moderna says a study in kids 6 to 11 found two doses of their vaccine given 28 days apart produced a strong antibody response. The study was done using a half dose of the adult vaccine. The company will submit the data to regulators in an attempt to win authorization of the vaccine for children in that age range. As with many things, there is no debate about giving children vaccines in China. With 76% of the population fully vaccinated and a zero-tolerance policy toward outbreaks, kids as young as 3 years old will start being vaccinated in at least five provinces.  What’s the best way to incentivize people to get vaccinated…you know, other than avoiding going on a ventilator? A study out of North Carolina says it’s cash. Guaranteed cash incentives slowed the decline in vaccine rates by half where offered. Researchers said rewards are especially effective if given immediately after the desired behavior, which is why some vaccine lotteries have not been effective.  A little bad news for some of you, and you know who you are. Researchers at the National Institute on Drug Abuse say regular use of marijuana can increase your chances of getting a breakthrough COVID infection. In fact, the study showed cannabis was the only substance that increased the risk based only on the substance and related behaviors. In the United States cases were down 25%, deaths are down 13%, and hospitalizations are down 19% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,388,349 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 54%, Vermont 31%, Maine 28%, Rhode Island 19%, and Colorado and Alaska 16%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Goshen, WY. Boundary, ID. Humboldt, NV. Bethel Census Area, AK. Carbon, WY. Nome Census Area, AK. Stark, ND. Inyo, CA. Fremont, WY. And Park, MT. There have been at least 737,316 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 70.9%, Rhode Island at 70.4%, and Connecticut at 70.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 41%, Idaho at 43.4%, and Wyoming at 43.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 57.4%. There were only three countries with a 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people; India up 2%, and Oceana and Indonesia 1%.  Globally, cases were down 2% and deaths were down 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since October 22.  There are 17,893,223 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 48,771. Russia 37,930. The U.K. 36,567. Turkey 27,663. And Ukraine 14,634.  There have been at least 4,954,274 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 25th, 2021. Sure you got one dose of Johnson & Johnson, or two doses of Pfizer or Moderna, but you may soon no longer be considered fully vaccinated. The head of the CDC said it may update its definition of what constitutes full vaccination as initial vaccine effectiveness wanes and booster shots are being promoted. Say what you want about it, but the cottage industry of scaring pregnant women about the vaccines is enjoying success. In September, the CDC urged expecting mothers to get vaccinated because complications from COVID can truly be deadly for mother and baby. Risks include stillbirths, restricted growth, and pre-eclampsia. And yet, two-thirds of America pregnant women think the vaccines are more dangerous than COVID and have not been vaccinated. While things continue to look good in many parts of the world, not so in eastern Europe. The number of infections so far there surpassed 20 million yesterday, and they’re dealing with the worst outbreak since the pandemic started. Less than half of the population in the region have gotten a single vaccine dose. With just 4% of the world's population, eastern Europe accounts for about 20% of all new cases reported globally. A bleak prediction for unvaccinated Covid survivors from a study out of Yale and the University of North Carolina. On average, they should expect to be reinfected with COVID every 16 to 17 months. COVID hasn’t been around long enough, so they studied reinfection in a close viral relative to find out how long natural immunity can be expected to last without any help.  An enterprising fellow in Melbourne came up with a way to help those who want to avoid getting vaccinated but enjoy all the benefits therein. He’s selling a fake arm online. The idea is you put it in a coat sleeve and hide your real arm inside the coat. Helpful instructions are to remember to wince and pretend there's some pain when the needle goes in. It’s not known how many of these have sold, especially since most vaccine shot givers know what a real arm feels like.   In the United States cases were down 25%, deaths are down 13%, and hospitalizations are down 18% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,503,806 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 50%, Vermont 36%, Maine 27%, Rhode Island 19%, and Colorado, Michigan, and Alaska 15%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Goshen, WY. Boundary, ID. Humboldt, NV. Bethel Census Area, AK. Carbon, WY. Nome Census Area, AK. Stark, ND. Inyo, CA. Fremont, WY. And Park, MT. There have been at least 735,930 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 70.7%, and Connecticut and Rhode Island at 70.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 40.9%, Idaho at 43.1%, and Wyoming at 43.3%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 57.2%. The five countries with the highest current infection reproduction rate are Czechia, Hungary, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Poland.  Globally, cases were down 2% and deaths were down 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since October 22.  There are 18,015,968 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The U.K. 39,962. Russia 35,660. Turkey 24,792. Ukraine 20,791. And the United States 17,580.  There have been at least 4,947,878 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 22nd, 2021. Pfizer says a booster shot of its vaccine boosts prevention of symptomatic cases back up to 95.6%. And this data was compiled when Delta was the prevalent strain. The CDC seems to be booster backers. Yesterday we told you they’ve decided mixing and matching boosters and original vaccines is okay. And, after saying those who got the Pfizer vaccine months ago are already eligible for a booster, they’ve added Moderna and Johnson & Johnson takers to that eligibility. The government says getting first shots to the unvaccinated is still the priority.  And so far, the public seems to be open to booster shots, certainly more than the number of people who are still considering getting the initial doses. The CDC reports there are 1.3 times as many boosters administered each day compared with first shots. And the FDA may soon lower the age range on its emergency use authorizations for boosters, depending on safety data.  Infections and deaths in Ukraine surged to all-time highs yesterday. Its vaccine inoculations are among the lowest in Europe. With a choice of four vaccines, only about 15% of the population is fully vaccinated. Only Armenia has a lower level. Restrictions are in place for public places and public transport.  Our question for today, are new variants of the coronavirus just going to keep emerging? Well, experts at Penn State say yes. But only if the virus can keep finding infectable people, because inside people is where new variants are made. Over half the world is still unvaccinated, so there are plenty of bodies to mutate in. However, these experts say that doesn’t necessarily mean new variants will be more dangerous. Why? It needs to adapt to us in order to spread more widely. Killing us doesn’t help it. Still, emerging variants are closely watched to see if they evade the protection we develop from vaccination and infections.  In the United States cases were down 25%, deaths are down 15%, and hospitalizations are down 19% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,522,759 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire 33%, Michigan 24%, Colorado and Minnesota 13%, and Wyoming and Montana 6%.    The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Goshen, WY. Bethel Census Area, AK. Stark, ND. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK. Pecos, TX. Inyo, CA. Fremont, WY. Humboldt, NV. And Glacier, MT.  There have been at least 733,064 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 70.6%, Connecticut at 70.1%, and Rhode Island at 70%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 40.9%, Idaho at 43%, and Wyoming at 43.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 57.1%. The five countries with biggest 24-hour increases in the number of fully vaccinated people: Taiwan up 4%. Uzbekistan and India 2%. And Australia and New Zealand 1%.  Globally, cases were down 8% and deaths were down 9% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since October 8.  There are now under 18 million active cases around the world, at 17,863,755. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 80,835. The U.K. 52,009. Russia 36,339. And Turkey 28,465.  There have been at least 4,928,934 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 21st, 2021. Sometimes it just doesn’t pay to be the leader of a country during a global pandemic. A leaked document suggests a Brazilian congressional panel is ready to recommend mass homicide charges be brought against President Bolsonaro over how he handled the virus. The charge is he deliberately allowed it to spread in hopes of achieving herd immunity. As we reported yesterday, millions of Russians are under strict new restrictions. In Moscow, all unvaccinated residents over 60, and unvaccinated people with chronic diseases have to lock down at home for four months. Non-working days have also been declared from October 30 to November 7 across Russia. The U.S. released its plan to vaccinate children 5 to 11. They’ll be able to get it at their pediatrician's office, a local pharmacy, or maybe even their school. Authorization to use Pfizer in kids is expected in a few weeks and those will be low dose shots. Moderna won’t give up how to make its vaccine, so the World Health Organization has hired an African startup to hack the formula. Or at least get as close to it as they can. Moderna's patent is public but the way it’s written doesn’t disclose everything. Moderna has said several times they won’t enforce their intellectual property during the pandemic, so it’s safe for the startup to move ahead without much fear of getting sued. They don’t have a choice in whether or not to get vaccinated, they haven’t organized protests against it, and so far, none of them have even said anything about it. 80 animals at the Cincinnati Zoo got two doses of vaccine designed for veterinary use. Handlers worked for weeks to get the animals comfortable with everything they’d see and feel when they got the injections.   In the United States cases were down 22%, deaths are down 14%, and hospitalizations are down 19% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,540,596 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: New Hampshire and Michigan 25%, Minnesota 15%, Colorado 14%, and Montana 9%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Goshen, WY. Stark, ND. Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK. Lake, MT. Bethel Census Area, AK. Hale, AL. Hill, MT. Inyo, CA. Arenac, MI. And Orleans, VT. There have been at least 729,434 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 70.6%, and Connecticut and Rhode Island at 70%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 40.9%, Idaho at 43%, and Wyoming at 43.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 57.1%. The top five countries with a 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Oceana up 3%. Taiwan, South Korea, and Bangladesh 2%. And Australia 1%. Globally, cases were down 9% and deaths were down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 26. There are 17,805,130 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 71,809. The U.K. 43,540. Russia 33,740. Turkey 30,862. And Romania 18,863. There have been at least 4,918,215 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 20th, 2021. Cases are going down worldwide, but in many countries, you certainly wouldn’t know it. For instance, some scientists are calling on the U.K. government to reimpose social restrictions and speed boosters as infection rates, which are Europe’s highest, keep going up. Russia had another daily record of deaths, and the country might declare a nonworking week. Romania hit daily records for infections and deaths…vaccine uptake is very low there. Latvia is going into a nearly monthlong lockdown that includes a curfew, with a vaccination rate that’s among the lowest in the EU. The Czechs just had the highest daily tally since late April. Poland is reporting an increase of almost 85% in new cases compared to the previous week. And New Zealand counted its most new cases of the pandemic Tuesday even as Auckland is in a two-month lockdown. U.S. federal regulators are expected to authorize mixing and matching booster doses this week. The idea is to provide more flexibility and get more boosters into more arms. The FDA is expected to say using the same brand is preferable, especially for Pfizer and Moderna, but studies have found an extra dose of any type revs up antibody levels. Yes, fully vaccinated people can still transmit the virus, but how likely is it that will happen? A new study shows not very likely. Experts at the University of Colorado School of Medicine examined several studies on breakthrough cases and concluded the CDC guidance on transmission from those cases may have been overstated. The study saw definitive proof the infected vaccinated pass along much less virus than the unvaccinated. This could affect guidance on mask requirements in the future. News you don’t want to hear, a newly detected variant that’s an offshoot of Delta appears to be rising in England. You may start hearing about AY.4.2. Now, experts at the University of Cambridge say the two mutations involved should not be of concern because they don’t have that large of an effect on the virus. But it could be 10-15% more transmissible than the original Delta. In the United States cases were down 20%, deaths are down 11%, and hospitalizations are down 19% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,584,770 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Michigan 26%, Minnesota 20%, New Hampshire 15%, Colorado 14%, and Montana 10%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lake, MT. Goshen, WY. Stark, ND. Hill, MT. Waynesboro, VA. Lewis and Clark, MT. Arenac, MI. Todd, MN. Hale, AL. And Orleans, VT. There have been at least 726,538 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 70.6%, and Connecticut and Rhode Island unchanged at 69.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia still unchanged at 40.8%, Idaho unchanged at 42.9%, and Wyoming unchanged at 43%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 57%. The top five countries with a 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Oceana up 3%. Taiwan, South Korea, and Bangladesh 2%. And Australia 1%. Globally, cases were down 8% and deaths were down 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 26. There are 17,765,495 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 53,135. The U.K. 49,018. Russia 34,325. Turkey 29,240. And India 12,338. There have been at least 4,909,698 deaths reported as... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 19th, 2021. 84-year-old Colin Powell, the retired four-star general who became the country's first Black secretary of state and chairman of the Joints Chiefs of Staff, died from complications of Covid-19. He was fully vaccinated. Powell had a cancer of a type of white blood cell. France's High Authority for Health decided to no longer allow the Moderna vaccine to be injected as a booster dose against Covid-19. Now only Pfizer is used for boosters in those that are eligible. Sweden and Finland had already suspended use of Moderna for those under 30 due to potential heart risks. And Denmark and Norway formally advised against it for people under 18. Iceland suspended it as a booster dose altogether. Japan is suddenly a big coronavirus success story. And if you ask them what they did, they’ll tell you “we have no idea.” Daily cases have plummeted, bars are packed, trains are crowded, and Japan never came anywhere near a lockdown. Some speculate it’s because of a late but fast vaccination campaign, bad weather in August that kept people home, or widespread masking, which was already embraced in that country even pre-pandemic. Thousands of California parents were expected to keep their kids home from school to protest a vaccine mandate. Some teachers were also planning on not showing up to classrooms. Nearly 40% of state employees remain unvaccinated. The question is, if we’re going to get booster shots, why weren’t the vaccine formulas revised to more closely target the Delta variant that’s been the biggest problem? The answer: The FDA okayed Pfizer boosters of the original recipe last month because studies showed it works good enough against Delta and the doses could roll out immediately without manufacturing problems. In the United States cases were down 22%, deaths are down 19%, and hospitalizations are down 18% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,675,650 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Michigan 28%, Minnesota 22%. Montana 13%, Colorado 11%. And Pennsylvania and North Dakota 8%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Goshen, WY. Lake, MT. Stark, ND. Bethel Census Area, AK. Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK. Kenai Peninsula Borough, AK. Nome Census Area, AK. Todd, MN. Hill, MT. And Hale, AL. There have been at least 724,502 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 70.5%, and Connecticut and Rhode Island at 69.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 40.8%, Idaho at 42.9%, and Wyoming at 43%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 57%. Only one country had a 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Oceana up 2%. Globally, cases were down 11% and deaths were down 15% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 26. There are 17,863,141 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The U.K. 45,140. Russia 34,303. Turkey 24,114. The United States 17,947. And India 14,289. There have been at least 4,901,756 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 18th, 2021. The FDA’s advisory panel voted unanimously to recommend Moderna booster shots for emergency use authorization. That moves millions in the U.S. closer to booster eligibility. The decision now goes to the FDA, which should make a final ruling in a few days. Moderna’s boosters are expected to be a half dose. Almost 1,000 people descended on Times Square Saturday to protest the vaccine and vaccine mandates. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., board chair of Children’s Health Defense, was a main speaker and said, “The vaccine is not safe and effective. We have no business giving this to little children. It is unethical, it is medical malpractice.” YouTube recently censored and banned the Children Health Defense’s channel. Melbourne has spent more time locked down than any city in the world. But that’s about to change. It will lift stay-at-home orders this week. It’s a city of 5 million people, but there have been six lockdowns totaling nearly nine months since March 2020. Cases are still rising there but the double-vaccination rate will hit 70% this week. Russia is still struggling. A record-high number of cases in 24 hours since the start of the pandemic, and 997 deaths. That’s just five fewer than the daily record-high of 1,002 reported just the day before. Authorities blame a slow vaccination campaign. New guidance from the CDC on how you should celebrate the upcoming holidays and stay safe from COVID. It’s not really anything new. Get vaccinated, the unvaccinated should wear masks all the time, the vaccinated should wear masks in public indoor settings, gather outdoors if possible, protect kids 11 years old and younger who can’t get the vaccine yet, and avoid travel if you aren’t fully vaccinated. In the United States cases were down 23%, deaths are down 17%, and hospitalizations are down 18% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,677,817 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Michigan 28%, Minnesota 21%. Montana 15%, and Pennsylvania and Colorado 9%.    The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Goshen, WY. Lake, MT. Stark, ND. Bethel Census Area, AK. Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK. Kenai Peninsula Borough, AK. Nome Census Area, AK. Todd, MN. Hill, MT. And Wadena, MN. There have been at least 724,177 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 70.4%, Connecticut at 69.7%, and Rhode Island at 69.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 40.8%, Idaho at 42.6%, and Wyoming unchanged at 42.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 56.7%. There were only four countries with a 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Russia up 3%. And Indonesia, Australia, and Montenegro 1%. Globally, cases were down 13% and deaths were down 17% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 26. There are 17,865,612 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The U.K. 43,275. The United States 33,910. Russia 33,208. Turkey 28,537. And Romania 15,239. There have been at least 4,897,649 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 15th, 2021. A major study shows infections among school-aged children in England are “high and rising.” That probably ups the intensity of the debate over kids and vaccines. The reproduction rate of those aged 17 and younger was 1.18, meaning on average every 10 infected young people are passing it on to about 12 others. From the gee I wish we’d known this earlier department, two new international studies show the immune protection from two doses of Pfizer drops off after a mere two months. One study found the drop especially true for men, people 65 and older, and those with immunosuppression. The study also found immunity lasts longer from a vaccination if you’ve already had a natural case of COVID-19. Penn State College of Medicine researchers found more than half of the 236 million people diagnosed with COVID-19 worldwide since December 2019 will experience post-COVID symptoms for up to six months after recovering. These include tiredness, difficulty breathing, chest pain, sore joints and loss of taste or smell. The research team said healthcare officials should get ready for all those survivors who’ll need care for psychological and physical conditions. How do airline passengers feel about vaccine mandates to fly? Well, it’s America, so the answer is, it’s split. That’s according to the travel website Skift’s poll. 45% definitely want a mandate, 23% don’t care either way, and 33% are against it. The older the person, the more likely they are to be in favor of requiring vaccinations to fly. With all the stories of overworked nurses with PTSD and of nurses who are getting fired or quitting because of vaccine mandates, you’d think it wouldn’t be a very alluring occupation right now. But applications to nursing schools are actually rising. Up 5.6% in 2020 according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, and number are also trending up in 2021. The reasons; unprecedented career opportunities, the challenge, and many people have been inspired by healthcare workers over the past couple of years. In the United States cases were down 22%, deaths are down 5%, and hospitalizations are down 21% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,702,828 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Michigan 26%, Minnesota 21%. North Dakota 16%, Montana 13%, and Pennsylvania 11%.    The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bethel Census Area, AK. Stark, ND. Goshen, WY. Kenai Peninsula Borough, AK. Lewis, KY. Lake, MT. Nome Census Area, AK. Rio Grande, CO. Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK. And Whitley, KY. There have been at least 720,482 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 70.3%, Connecticut unchanged at 69.6%, and Rhode Island at 69.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia still unchanged at 40.7%, Idaho unchanged at 42.5%, and Wyoming at 42.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 56.5%. The five countries with the biggest 24-hour increases in the number of fully vaccinated people: Cambodia, New Zealand, Australia, Thailand, and Oceana all up 2%. Globally, cases were down 14% and deaths were down 15% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 26. There are 17,809,484 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 99,775. The U.K. 42,606. Turkey 31,248. Russia 28,717. And India... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 14th, 2021. After a 19-month freeze, the United States will open its land borders with Canada and Mexico to non-essential travel. Fully vaccinated foreign nationals can enter the U.S. for whatever reason starting early November. Travelers will be asked about their vaccination status as part of the standard Customs and Border Protection admissions process, and no testing will be required to enter by land or sea. Despite full steam ahead by the U.S. administration and other countries, the Director General of the World Health Organization called booster shots while initial inoculations lag in some countries is "immoral, unfair, and unjust.” He went on to say, "To start boosters is really the worst we can do as a global community." A federal judge ruled the state of New York can’t impose a vaccine mandate on healthcare workers and not allow their employers to consider religious exemption requests. The judge said the vaccination requirement conflicted with the workers’ federally protected right to seek religious accommodations from their employers. The Governor vowed to fight the decision. At least 24 states have imposed vaccine requirements on workers, usually in healthcare. Boeing told employees they have to be vaccinated and if they don’t, they might get fired. Deadline is December 8 and the company said compliance is a condition of employment. This affects about 125,000 U.S.-based employees. The International Association of Machinists union said it’s their responsibility to defend and advocate for members, but the fact is the membership is polarized on the issue. So can you get a booster from a different vaccine than your original doses? A new NIH study found yes, it’s safe and effective. However, Moderna and Pfizer were found to spark a stronger immune system response than Johnson & Johnson. The study found those that got J&J got stronger antibody levels after getting a Moderna or Pfizer booster, compared to another J&J shot.   In the United States cases were down 21%, deaths are down 4%, and hospitalizations are down 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,695,293 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Michigan 23%, Minnesota 18%. North Dakota and Pennsylvania 12%. And Montana 10%.    The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Karnes, TX. Bethel Census Area, AK. Lewis, KY. Stark, ND. Kenai Peninsula Borough, AK. Knox, IN. Goshen, WY. Rio Grande, CO. Clay, TX. And Nome Census Area, AK. There have been at least 717,812 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 70.3%, Connecticut at 69.6%, and Rhode Island at 69.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia still unchanged at 40.7%, Idaho at 42.5%, and Wyoming at 42.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 56.5%. The five countries with biggest 24-hour increases in the number of fully vaccinated people: Taiwan up 5%. And South Korea, New Zealand, Australia, and Oceana 2%. Globally, cases were down 13% and deaths were down 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 26. There are 17,774,995 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 84,154. The U.K. 38,076. Turkey 33,860. Russia 28,190. And Romania 16,743. There have been at least 4,870,663 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 13th, 2021. The British government didn’t get a very good report card from Parliament on how it handled COVID. A critical report said the country waited too long to impose a lockdown in the early days, and that missed a chance to contain the disease and led to thousands of unnecessary deaths. The delay attributed to a dangerous level of “groupthink” that caused dismissal of more aggressive strategies. The committees did praise the government’s early focus on vaccines and vaccine development. A French study of 22.6 million people over 50 found vaccination reduces the risk of dying or being hospitalized by 90%. It also found vaccines appear to protect against the worst effects of Delta. The study’s authors said, “This means those vaccinated are nine times less at risk of being hospitalized or dying from Covid than those unvaccinated.” Explosive accusations against Prevent Senior, which operates 10 hospitals in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Whistleblowing doctors testified the hospitals enlisted participants to test unproven drugs without proper consent and forced doctors to prescribe unproven drugs touted by Brazil’s President. Some senators say it also looks like the system falsified death certificates to omit COVID as cause of death. The FDA declined to take a stand on whether it should back booster shots of Moderna’s vaccine, mostly because data shows two doses are still enough to protect against severe disease and death in the U.S. They also didn’t take a stand on Pfizer’s booster shots last month and rejected Pfizer’s original plan to distribute boosters to everyone 16 and older. A national poll by NPR find the pandemic put Americans increasingly behind the economic 8-ball. More are experiencing serious financial problems, rent's overdue, evictions are looming, two-thirds of parents say their kids fell behind in school, and one in five households say someone in the home couldn’t get medical care for a serious condition. All this while billions of dollars in government relief money have gone out. 19% of U.S. households report losing all their savings during the pandemic and have no savings to fall back on. Add to that, half of households report at least one person in the home has had serious problems with depression, anxiety, stress or sleep in recent months. In the United States cases were down 24%, deaths are down 10%, and hospitalizations are down 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,757,409 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Michigan 21%, Minnesota 17%. Pennsylvania 13%. North Dakota 12%. And Montana 9%.    The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bethel Census Area, AK. Knox, IN. Lewis, KY. Kenai Peninsula Borough, AK. Stark, ND. McCreary, KY. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Rio Grande, CO. Clay, TX. And Martin, MN. There have been at least 715,413 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated were all unchanged: Vermont at 70.2%, Connecticut at 69.4%, and Rhode Island at 69.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states, also unchanged, are West Virginia at 40.7%, and Wyoming and Idaho at 42.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 56.4%. The five countries with biggest 24-hour increases in the number of fully vaccinated people: Oceana up 3%. Cambodia, Australia, and Kosovo 2%. And Ukraine 1%. Globally, cases were down 12% and deaths were down 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 26. There are... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 12th, 2021. Merck asked U.S. regulators yesterday to authorize the pill it has for treating COVID. If they hear what they want to hear from the FDA, and that could happen in a few weeks, that’d be the first pill shown to treat the illness. There are other drugs, but they require an IV or injection. Merck said earlier this month the pill cut hospitalizations and deaths by half among patients with early symptoms. Meanwhile AstraZeneca's antibody cocktail against COVID, already shown to work as a preventative shot in the non-infected, was also shown to save lives and prevent severe disease when used as treatment within a week of first symptoms. Two new studies indicate pregnant women who develop Covid symptoms risk emergency complications and additional problems, and the disease puts their babies at risk. Of the 100 Covid-positive moms who delivered babies between March and September of 2020 at one Texas hospital, 58% of those with symptomatic infections delivered in emergency circumstances. For those with an asymptomatic case, 46% did. It’s a sure way to fight Covid…sue people. A parent in southern Wisconsin has sued their school district after her son got Covid-19 from a classmate. She’s upset the board removed a student mask requirement and other Covid-19 mitigation measures in May. Her son, who was wearing a mask, sat next to a kid who had symptoms and was infected regardless. The suit calls for the district to comply with CDC guidelines. Do you habitually smoke weed? Never mind, you don’t have to tell me. But you should know a study from an arm of the National Institutes of Health says the risk of getting a coronavirus breakthrough infection in the U.S. may be 7.8% higher among those who habitually smoke weed. The risk is also there, but a little lower, for those with tobacco use disorder. In the United States cases were down 19%, deaths are down 2%, and hospitalizations are down 21% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,793,733 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Michigan 21%, Minnesota 16%. Pennsylvania 15%. North Dakota 14%. And Montana 10%.    The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bethel Census Area, AK. Stark, ND. Lewis, KY. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Whitley, KY. Knox, IN. Clay, TX. Custer, MT. McCreary, MT. And Big Horn, WY. There have been at least 713,770 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 70.2%, Connecticut at 69.4%, and Rhode Island at 69.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 40.7%, and Wyoming and Idaho at 42.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 56.4%. The five countries with biggest 24-hour increases in the number of fully vaccinated people: Oceana, Cambodia up 2%, and Saudi Arabia and India 1%. Globally, cases were down 12% and deaths were down 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 26. There are 17,913,065 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The U.K. 34,320. The United States 29,520. Russia 28,647. Turkey 28,370. And India 19,018. There have been at least 4,855,635 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 11th, 2021. You might want to send Italy a congratulations. That country announced it’s reached its goal of 80% of the population over 12 being fully vaccinated. That amounts to 43 million people out of 60 million. However, a lot of people hit the streets not to celebrate, but to protest vaccine passports. Many of these gatherings turned into violent riots. A comprehensive CBS News poll shows that most Americans are still worried about the pandemic with winter on the way, and a bit pessimistic in saying things are going to get worse in the coming months, not better. As for parents of young children, it’s split down the middle in terms of will they get their children vaccinated. Masking for kids in school does seem to have majority support. About half feel the information they hear from America’s health leaders has been confusing. The deadline is right around the corner and at the moment, hundreds of thousands of U.S. service members are still unvaccinated. Most of those deadlines are in November and December. Different branches are delivering different levels of compliance. For instance 90% of the active-duty Navy is fully immunized while only 72% of active-duty Marines are.   The news is usually bad enough without getting it completely wrong. The New York Times issued a correction after their health and science reporter said 900,000 children have been hospitalized in the US with Covid-19. Not even a little bit close. The actual figure is a 63,000. The piece also got actions taken by regulators in Sweden and Denmark wrong. Wait, we’re not done. She also got the timing of an FDA meeting on authorizing the Pfizer vaccine for kids wrong. Typically cautious and often a full-on buzzkill about holidays, Dr. Anthony Fauci says don’t worry about trick or treating outdoors this Halloween. While he says we shouldn’t declare premature victory and he still wants more people vaccinated who are eligible, Fauci did note that cases are dropping. Right now, there are about 95,000 new cases a day. Fauci said when it drops to less than 10,000 a day, we can start dropping restrictions like masking indoors...which will make it much easier to bob for apples. In the United States cases were down 20%, deaths are down 14%, and hospitalizations are down 21% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,820,727 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Michigan 20%, North Dakota 18%, Pennsylvania 15%. Minnesota 13%. And Montana 8%.    The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bethel Census Area, AK. Stark, ND. Lewis, KY. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Whitley, KY. Knox, IN. Clay, TX. Custer, MT. McCreary, MT. And Big Horn, WY. There have been at least 712,993 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 69.8%, Connecticut unchanged at 69.2%, and Rhode Island unchanged at 69%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 40.6%, and Wyoming and Idaho at 42.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 56.2%. The five countries with biggest 24-hour increases in the number of fully vaccinated people: St. Lucia and Kosovo up 2%. And Australia, Sri Lanka, and Finland 1%. Globally, cases were down 14% and deaths were down 16% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 5. The number of active cases around the world has now dropped below 18 million, at 17,987,905. The five countries with the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 8th, 2021. With the number of those killed by COVID having surpassed 700,000, among that number is a bonus tragedy. A study shows the number of children in the U.S. who were made orphans or partial orphans by the pandemic is larger than first believed. More than 120,000 lost a primary guardian or caregiver. Black and Hispanic children have experienced this the most. Finland joined Sweden and Denmark in halting the use of Moderna’s vaccine as a precautionary measure for men born in 1991 and later. This because of concerns about reports of possible rare cardiovascular side effects like myocarditis and pericarditis. Finland will give those young citizens the Pfizer vaccine instead. Is the pandemic leading to diplomacy? The World Health Organization has shipped COVID-19 medical supplies into North Korea. It’s the kind of help that isolated nation rarely accepts. Those supplies are still sitting in quarantine at a seaport, but still. North Korea had severely restricted cross-border traffic and trade for the past two years despite an already crippled economy. We told you yesterday about how police officers are among the most reluctant profession to get vaccinated. Well New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio doesn’t care. He’s considering expanding his mandates on teachers and school employees to police officers, firefighters, and correction officers. The Mayor called them the “other pieces of the puzzle.”  It’s widely considered unethical to refuse to treat someone because they smoke. But a Colorado woman is being denied a kidney transplant unless she gets vaccinated. The 56-year-old may not last long without the surgery and is quite confused that her hospital is so insistent on protecting her from COVID, that they’re willing to watch her die from her kidney condition.  In the United States cases were down 23%, deaths are down 13%, and hospitalizations are down 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,811,930 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: North Dakota 25%, Pennsylvania and Michigan 14%, Wyoming 11%, and Montana 9%.    The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Kodiak Island Borough, AK. McCreary, KY. Bethel Census Area, AK. Custer, MT. Green, KY. Whitley, KY. Clay, TX. Stark, ND. Morton, ND. And Wadena, MN.  There have been at least 710,173 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 69.8%, Connecticut at 69.2%, and Rhode Island at 69%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 40.6%, and Wyoming and Idaho at 42.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 56.1%. The five countries with the biggest 24-hour increases in the number of fully vaccinated people: Taiwan up 5%. And New Zealand, South Korea, Australia, and Thailand 2%.  Globally, cases were down 11% and deaths were down 9% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since October 5.  There are 18,062,833 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 102,090. The U.K. 40,701. Turkey 30,019. Russia 27,550. And Germany 22,403.  There have been at least 4,833,592 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 7th, 2021. As expected, Los Angeles leaders voted 11-2 to enact one of the nation’s strictest vaccine mandates. Vaccination is required for everyone entering bars, restaurants, nail salons, gyms, and indoor sporting events. Everyone needs to be in compliance by November 4. About 69% of the county’s 10 million residents are fully vaccinated. Sweden and Denmark, as a precautionary measure, stopped the use of Moderna's vaccine for people born in 1991 and later after reports of possible rare cardiovascular side effects. These include myocarditis and pericarditis, which involve inflammation of the heart or its lining.  For those who ask why we can’t rely on testing alone instead of vaccines, here’s one reason. Australian test kit maker Ellume recalled some at-home tests after learning they were reporting a higher-than-expected number of false positives. The tests went out to U.S. retailers and other distributors from April through August. About 427,000 tests are involved in the recall.  Being a police officer is dangerous. But now, not for the reasons you might think. COVID-19 is now killing more law enforcement officers than any other threat they face in the line of duty. The Fraternal Order of Police reports 716 officers have died since March 2020. And vaccine reluctance remains high among them. For instance, in Philadelphia, only 13% of police department employees have provided proof of vaccination.  Following the science is fine, but does science really say the bodies of famous celebrities contain more natural immunity to COVID-19 than the rest of us? Many performers and athletes are exempt from New York City’s vaccination mandates, and some local politicians are calling it a “double standard” that’s both “astounding” and “infuriating.” The loophole is entertainers can work unvaccinated in the city as long as they aren’t residents of the city.   In the United States cases were down 24%, deaths are down 12%, and hospitalizations are down 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,800,155 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: North Dakota 26%, Pennsylvania 16%, Michigan 14%, and Montana and Wyoming 11%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: McCreary, KY. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Bethel Census Area, AK. Custer, MT. Green, KY. Morton, ND. Whitley, KY. Wadena, MN. Big Horn, WY. And Stark, ND.  There have been at least 707,775 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 69.8%, Connecticut unchanged at 69.1%, and Rhode Island at 68.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia again unchanged at 40.5%, and Wyoming and Idaho at 42%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 56%. The 5 countries with the most recent 24-hour increases in the number of fully vaccinated people: Taiwan up 4%. South Korea 3%. And New Zealand, Australia, and Oceana 2%.  Globally, cases were down 16% and deaths were down 13% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,025,977 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 106,455. The U.K. 39,851. Turkey 30,438. Russia 25,133. And India 22,617.  There have been at least 4,827,568 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 6th, 2021. Amid the nationwide shortage in qualified, experienced healthcare workers, we’re losing them by the thousands due to vaccine mandates. Northwell Health, the largest health care provider in New York state, fired 1,400 of them for non-compliance. In Detroit, around 400 workers left the job at Henry Ford Health System.  We’ll see if the same thing happens with teachers. The vaccine mandate for teachers and staff took effect Monday in New York City's million-plus-student public school system. Unvaccinated employees will be placed on unpaid leave and substitutes brought in to take their place. And there is no test-out option. A similar mandate goes into effect in L.A. October 15. There’s a problem with COVID-19 tests. Demand has made the price skyrocket and made availability an issue. Much of that demand is coming from employers who’ve been made responsible for making sure their workers are COVID-free. Test makers are scaling up production, but it will take time to catch up.   Just how much worse was Delta than the original version of the coronavirus? A new study out of Canada has put a number on it. Saying Delta causes more serious disease and is associated with increased risk of death, researchers found a 108% increased risk for hospitalization, 235% increased risk for ICU admission, and 133% increased risk for death compared to the original. It’s hard to imagine anyone making Mike Tyson do anything. But the world-famous boxer said that while he has been vaccinated, it’s not because he wanted to. He told USA TODAY, “I didn’t do it willingly. I was pretty much beaten into submission to do this because I travel internationally. And if I don’t travel, we don’t eat.”  In the United States cases were down 24%, deaths are down 12%, and hospitalizations are down 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are currently 9,774,391 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: North Dakota 27%, Pennsylvania 16%, Michigan and Wyoming 13%, and Montana 11%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: McCreary, KY. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Bethel Census Area, AK. Custer, MT. Green, KY. Morton, ND. Whitley, KY. Wadena, MN. Big Horn, WY. And Stark, ND.  There have been at least 705,116 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 69.7%, Connecticut at 69.1%, and Maine unchanged at 68.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 40.5%, Wyoming unchanged at 41.7%, and Idaho at 42%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 56%. There were only 4 countries with recent 24-hour increases in the number of fully vaccinated people: Taiwan up 7%. Oceana 2%. And El Salvador and India 1%.  Globally, cases were down 20% and deaths were down 17% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are currently 18,040,210 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 94,811. The U.K. 33,869. Turkey 29,802. Russia 25,110. And Brazil 20,528.  There have been at least 4,816,009 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 5th, 2021. They had a dream, they gave it a shot, but it didn’t work out. New Zealand has admitted it will not be able to completely get rid of the coronavirus. They’ve had a zero-tolerance approach from the beginning with strict lockdowns and aggressive contact tracing. In a country of 5 million, only 27 virus deaths have been reported. But a delta outbreak has made the government realize they’re going to have to ease lockdown restrictions, even though COVID is still around. The EU’s drug regulator gave its backing to giving booster shots of Pfizer to everyone 18 and older, saying doses “may be considered at least 6 months after the second dose.” They also support a third dose of Pfizer or Moderna for those with severely weakened immune systems at least 28 days after their second shot. Johnson & Johnson is reportedly going to ask the FDA this week to authorize a booster of its vaccine. A meeting of the agency’s expert advisory committee will happen on the 15th to discuss the matter. Over 15 million Americans have gotten the one dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The company says a second shot about two months after the first increased effectiveness to 94%. In another head spinning reversal, the CDC quickly removed the guidance for holiday safety that they put out a couple of days prior, saying it was old information posted in error. That explains a lot as the guidance was as severe and restrictive as for the holidays of 2020. The organization said it will be sharing updated guidance soon. Is the pandemic pushing the world into the automation revolution? Last year’s grape harvest in Italy was so bad for Mirko Cappelli’s Tuscan vineyard because he couldn’t get workers that this year, he spent $98,000 on a grape-picking robot. And he’s not alone. Vintners have been slow to adopt automation because of worry it might damage the grapes. Some European regions even ban machine harvesting. But the tide seems to be shifting out of necessity, despite a few sour grapes.  In the United States cases were down 24%, deaths are down 12%, and hospitalizations are down 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,802,566 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: North Dakota 26%, Pennsylvania 17%, and Michigan, Montana, and Wyoming 13%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Kodiak Island Borough, AK. DeWitt, TX. Bethel Census Area, AK. Custer, MT. McCreary, KY. Green, KY. Morton, ND. Big Horn, WY. Stark, ND. And Wadena, MN. There have been at least 703,278 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 69.6%, Connecticut at 69%, and Maine at 68.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 40.5%, Wyoming at 41.7%, and Idaho at 41.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 55.9%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: There were only three with increases. Panama, South America, and Oceana all up 2%.  Globally, cases were down 19% and deaths were down 15% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,115,500 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 72,947. The U.K. 35,077. Turkey 28,810. Russia 25,781. And India 16,762.  There have been at least 4,808,399 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 4th, 2021. More pressure on vaccinated citizens in Israel to go ahead and get their booster shot. Only those who do will be eligible for the "green pass" needed to get into restaurants, gyms, and other venues. They started giving boosters to everyone 12 and up at the end of August. For some unexplained reason, places like museums and libraries are exempt from the green pass requirement. Still a rough go of it in Russia. That country yesterday reported a record daily death toll from COVID for the fifth time in a week. 890 more deaths and the number of new infections in the past day was the second highest of the year. Overall, Russia has Europe's highest death toll, nearly 210,000 people. Happy holidays from your friends at the CDC. They issued new guidelines for how you should decrease the risk of infection or transmission during the upcoming holiday season. They suggest outdoor or virtual celebrations only, staying 6 feet away from each other, wearing a mask at all times if unvaccinated, putting fans in open windows to keep air circulating, and no traveling unless fully vaccinated and masked on public transportation. Kinda makes you feel all warm inside.  Another story about just how determined anti-vaxxers are to avoid vaccines at all costs. A woman recounted on Twitter how her 52-year-old unvaccinated husband wound up in ICU with a ventilator and ECMO from severe COVID. He needed a blood transfusion, but she wouldn’t allow it for fear he’d get vaccinated blood. Well, he died, but she says it wasn’t because he was unvaccinated. It’s hard to believe since many of us are surrounded by them every day, but COVID has created a clown shortage. It’s particularly bad in Northern Ireland because many circus clowns went back to their home countries after the initial lockdown. Others found work in countries with more relaxed restrictions. Big recruiting drives for new clowns are underway but applicants have big shoes to fill. I said they have big shoes to fill.  In the United States cases were down 27%, deaths are down 6%, and hospitalizations are down 17% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,860,357 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: North Dakota 21%, Pennsylvania 19%, Montana 17%, Maine 16%,and West Virginia 13%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Green, KY. McCreary, KY. Waynesboro, VA. Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK. Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK. Bethel Census Area, AK. Custer, MT. Lewis, WV. And Harlan, KY.  The number of deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related has crossed over 700,000, at at least 701,169. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 69.5%, Connecticut at 68.7%, and Maine unchanged at 68.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia still unchanged at 40.4%, and Wyoming and Idaho at 41.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 55.6%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: South Korea up 2%. And Finland, Argentina, Australia, and Azerbaijan 1%.  Globally, cases were down 18% and deaths were down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,321,109 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The U.K. 30,439. Turkey 27,351. The United States 26,933. Russia 25,769. And India 21,684.  The number of deaths reported as... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for October 1st, 2021. Time to get your vaccine. We’re not talking about your COVID vaccine although you’re supposed to get that too. It’s also flu shot time. And yes, health experts are very worried that there’s plenty of vaccine fatigue out there which could result in an atypical drop in the number of people getting their flu shots. It also could be a hard sell because flu cases are at historically low levels, at least partly because of the pandemic.  You might think the vast majority of Americans are of one mind and in favor of vaccine mandates, but an AP poll shows that’s not the case. In fact, as we so often are these days, the country is split almost 50/50 on the issue. 51% approve, 34% disapprove and 14% haven’t formed an opinion yet. Even 23% of people who have been vaccinated are against mandates. As for how mandates by employers are working, United Airlines say of the employees facing firing for not accepting the vaccine shots, almost half eventually submitted. That leaves only about 320 employees to fire. Delta’s trying another tactic, charging unvaccinated workers an extra $200 a month on their health plans. We thought we’d go ahead and answer this question before you ask it. Are you considered fully vaccinated so you can work and travel and go shopping if you do not get a booster shot? The CDC says yes, you're fully vaccinated two weeks after getting a second dose of Pfizer or Moderna or one dose of Johnson & Johnson. Boosters are recommended for people 65 and over, long-term care residents, and those 50 to 64 with health problems like diabetes or heart disease if they got their last Pfizer shot at least six months ago. People who got Moderna and J&J aren't even eligible for boosters yet. In the Broadway show, Aladdin sings about a whole new world and that’s obviously what we’re living in. Because that show was cancelled Wednesday when several of the company’s members tested positive. They had just reopened the show the day before.   In the United States cases were down 26%, deaths are up 2%, and hospitalizations are down 17% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,875,879 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Maine 21%, Vermont 20%, and Montana, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia 18%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK. Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK. Green, KY. Cleburne, AL. Lewis, WV. Kenai Peninsula Borough, AK. Letcher, KY. Whitley, KY. And Waynesboro, VA. There have been at least 697,832 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 69.4%, Connecticut unchanged at 68.6%, and Maine at 68.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia still unchanged at 40.4%, and Wyoming and Idaho at 41.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 55.5%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Taiwan up 4%. Ethiopia 3%. And South Korea, Australia, and Indonesia 2%.  Globally, cases were down 17% and deaths were down 13% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,404,118 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 113,922. The U.K. 36,480. Turkey 29,104. Brazil 27,527. And India 27,300.  There have now been at least 4,781,886 deaths reported as Covid-related... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 30th, 2021. YouTube had already censored videos containing what they deemed was vaccine misinformation. Now it’s gone an extra step and is censoring any video expressing any opinion about vaccines that suggest there are any possible health consequences to getting vaccinated. The 1996 Communications Decency Act that protects YouTube from liability claims is based on the notion the platform is merely a host and has no editorial role in what does and doesn’t go on the platform.  Fans of mandates will be happy to hear AT&T will mandate vaccines for its employees in the Communications Workers of America union. They’ve got until February 1 to be fully vaccinated. CWA represents about 90,000 AT&T workers, and the company has about 230,000 employees. Not only does the CDC say the vaccines do not negatively affect pregnancies or fertility, it issued its strongest guidance yet yesterday urging pregnant women to be vaccinated. More than a quarter million cases in pregnant women have been reported, 22,000 of whom were hospitalized. 161 pregnant women have died of Covid, with 22 deaths in August alone. Yet less than a third of pregnant women have been vaccinated. A new AP poll shows being vaccinated isn’t giving older Americans much comfort. In fact, they’re far more worried about COVID than their unvaccinated counterparts and despite being vaccinated are more likely to self-isolate. They’re also less likely to rate their quality of life, mental and emotional health, and social activities and relationships as excellent or very good. If you want total control of the population and a zero tolerance COVID policy, China’s showing us what that looks like. A woman was infected, so she went into isolation, leaving food and water for her three pet cats. An official came in and tested the cats, they tested positive, so they killed them all. The CDC says the risk of animals spreading the virus is low, plus the cats were confined to the apartment.   In the United States cases were down 26%, deaths are up 7%, and hospitalizations are down 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,850,841 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations per capita: Vermont up 28%, Maine 21%, Montana 20%, Pennsylvania 19%, and West Virginia and North Dakota 18%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Cleburne, AL. Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK. Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK. Green, KY. Whitley, KY. Letcher, KY. Lewis, WV. Kenai Peninsula Borough, AK. And Knox, KY. There have been at least 695,041 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 69.4%, Connecticut at 68.6%, and Maine at 68.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 40.4%, Wyoming at 41.4%, and Idaho at 41.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 55.8%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: The Philippines up 16%. Jamaica 4%. Taiwan 3%. And Oceana and New Zealand 2%.  Globally, cases were down 17% and deaths were down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,392,504 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 123,276. The U.K. 36,722. Turkey 29,386. India 23,139. And Russia 22,430.  There have now been at least 4,772,958 deaths reported as Covid-related... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 29th, 2021. Pfizer has given the FDA research on the effectiveness of its vaccine in kids 5-11, but those shots may not come until November. First, Pfizer has to file its application, then U.S. regulators and public health officials review and consult with advisory committees. And all that takes time.  Russia reported its highest Covid death toll in a single day yesterday with 852 coronavirus-related deaths in the past 24 hours. The Kremlin acknowledged some regions had seen an increase in cases. Less than 50 million Russians having received a first dose of a vaccine even though the country was first in the world to approve one. We should be cherishing healthcare workers but instead they’re being attacked. So much so that they’ll be issued panic buttons. This has happened in a Branson, Missouri hospital where assaults on workers tripled since the pandemic hit. Pushing the button immediately alerts security. Similar increases in hospital assaults have been reported around the country.  An updated study on what the main reason was people who were previously reluctant to get vaccinated wound up changing their mind from the Kaiser Family Foundation. The top reasons, in order, were, someone they knew personally got sick or died, vaccines were required to participate in a desired activity, concerns about overwhelmed hospitals, the surge of cases due to Delta, and it was required as a condition of employment.  He’s one of the biggest, most well-known celebrities on the planet. So NBA superstar LeBron James might be able to inspire people to get vaccinated. But he won’t. After months of initial reluctance, he confirmed yesterday he did get the vaccine. But he’s not going to tell anyone else to do so, saying, "I don't feel I should get involved in what other people should do for their bodies and livelihoods.” In the United States cases were down 33%, deaths are up 12%, and hospitalizations are down 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,822,645 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest number of daily deaths per capita are Alabama, Alaska, Florida, South Carolina, and Oklahoma.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AK. Cleburne, AL. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK. Lewis, WV. Whitley, KY. Green, KY. Custer, MT. Letcher, KY. And Magoffin, KY. There have been at least 692,511 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated were all unchanged: Vermont at 69.3%, Connecticut at 68.5%, and Maine at 68.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 40.4%, Wyoming unchanged at 41.2%, and Idaho unchanged at 41.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 55.4%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: South Korea and Taiwan up 3%. And Oceana, Nepal, and India 2%.   Globally, cases were down 20% and deaths were down 10% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,415,997 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 105,633. The U.K. 34,526. Turkey 28,892. India 21,901. And Russia 21,559.  There have now been at least 4,763,415 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 28th, 2021. The U.S. President sought to lead by example as he received his booster shot on camera just one workday after the CDC and FDA recommended a third dose of Pfizer. You’re qualified to get one if you have pre-existing medical conditions, high-risk work environments, or are 65 and older. Let’s just say the President qualified.  Pfizer started a large study testing its oral antiviral drug to prevent COVID-19 infection among those who’ve been exposed. They’re in a battle with Merck and Roche to get there first. The drug is designed to block a key enzyme needed for the virus to multiply and will be combined with a low dose of an older medication widely used as part of treatment for HIV. A Massachusetts police union announced that not a couple, not a few, but dozens of state troopers have quit over a vaccine mandate for state workers. A judge threw out a lawsuit filed by the State Police Association of Massachusetts that sought to at least delay the mandate.  While cases are trending down, for many, the damage has already been done. And we’re not talking about long COVID. A study out of Oxford shows American males experienced the largest loss in life expectancy in 2020, which shaved 2.2 years off their lifespans. Black and Hispanic groups saw the greatest dip in life expectancy. Some scientists are studying a type of antibody derived from llamas as a possible treatment for COVID. Actually any member of the camelid family, like camels, llamas, and alpacas, will do and produce unique antibodies called nanobodies that are robust and bind to specific targets. The llama they’re studying is named Fifi, just so if it works you’ll know who to thank. In the United States cases were down 33%, deaths are up 12%, and hospitalizations are down 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,840,573 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in per capita hospitalizations over 14 days are Vermont at 35%, Maine 22%, Montana 21%, West Virginia 20%. And Pennsylvania and North Dakota 19%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Matanuska-Susitna Borough, AL. Cleburne, AL. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK. Lewis, WV. Whitley, KY. Green, KY. Custer, MT. Letcher, KY. And Magoffin, KY. There have been at least 690,426 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 69.3%, Connecticut at 68.5%, and Maine at 68.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 40.3%, Wyoming at 41.2%, and Idaho at 41.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 55.3%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Georgia, Kosovo, Oceana, Bangladesh, and Ethiopia all up 2%.   Globally, cases were down 22% and deaths were down 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,519,283 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 81,550. The U.K. 32,258. India 27,022. Turkey 25,861. And Russia 22,498.  There have now been at least 4,755,749 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 27th, 2021. Health officials in the U.S. say supply isn’t a problem. There are more than 40 million doses of vaccines available, so that’s enough to give qualified older Americans boosters and the first rounds for young children when the vaccine is approved for them. More than 70 million Americans remain unvaccinated. Breakthrough cases in the vaccinated are still rare but growing less rare. In fact, experts expect them to be even more common in the near future, saying most people will become infected at some point in their lives. But the appeal is still that vaccines will help keep cases from being severe. The CDC’s latest data found unvaccinated people are 10 times more likely to be hospitalized from the virus. So if healthcare workers keep quitting, some of them because of vaccine mandates, who’ll take care of patients? In New York, the possible answer is The National Guard. They’re looking into that, as well as bringing in professionals from other states and countries, and reactivating retired nurses. Some 16% of the state’s hospital staff have not been fully vaccinated. In California, first responders also remain disproportionately reluctant to get vaccinated. Public health officials have identified more than 200 outbreaks at police or fire agencies throughout Los Angeles County since the start of the pandemic. Vaccination rates for LAPD an LAFD employees generally lag behind the 68% of eligible county residents who’ve gotten their shots. Also, lots of vaccine reluctance in the NBA, a league that’s trying to figure out what to do about it. There are 10% or so of players that are still holding out. And that doesn’t make basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar too happy. He says “there’s no room for players” who pass on the vaccine. And as influencers, he says they’re “failing to live up to the responsibilities that come with celebrity.”  In the United States cases were down 18%, deaths are up 23%, and hospitalizations are down 15% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,858,405 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in per capita hospitalizations over 14 days are Vermont at 45%, Montana 24%, Maine 23%. West Virginia 21%. And Pennsylvania and North Dakota 20%. Vermont and Maine are among the most fully vaccinated states.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Cleburne, AL. Whitley, KY. Magoffin, KY. Custer, MT. Braxton, WV. Kodiak Island Borough, AK. Lewis, WV. Russell, KY. Big Horn, WY. And Harlan, KY.  There have been at least 688,032 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 69.1%, Connecticut at 68.2%, and Maine at 68%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia still unchanged at 40.2%, Wyoming at 41%, and Idaho at 41.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 55%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Australia and St. Lucia up 2%, and Azerbaijan, Australia, and Oceana 1%.   Globally, cases were down 16% and deaths were down 10% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,614,780 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The U.K. 32,417. India 27,022. Turkey 25,861. The United States 24,343. And Russia 22,498.  There have now been at least 4,747,726 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 24th, 2021. A CDC advisory panel recommended a booster shot of the Pfizer vaccine for Americans 65 and older and some adults with underlying medical conditions that put them at risk of severe disease. What it declined to do was recommend boosters for younger adults, including healthcare workers, who live or work in places with high risk of contracting COVID-19. Boy we hope this is true. The creator of the AstraZeneca vaccine says COVID-19 is unlikely to mutate into a deadlier variant and will eventually end up like the common cold. Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert said viruses tend to “become less virulent as they circulate” through the population. She also points out we already live with four different human coronaviruses and this one will become just another. No choice this time. All Team USA athletes and staff will need to be fully vaccinated to compete at the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Beijing that kick off in February 2022. Proof must be submitted by December 1 and the Olympic Committee added booster shots “may be required in the future.”  England’s Covid travel rules aren’t exactly winning raves. The country is refusing to recognize vaccines administered across Latin America, Africa, and south Asia. Critics call it illogical and discriminatory. Those without recognized vaccines will be considered “not fully vaccinated” and made to quarantine 10 days on arrival from amber list countries. It was a joke. “Hey maybe some people will hold COVID parties to deliberately infect themselves like people used to do for their kids with chicken pox.” But now it’s not a joke, because a group of people in Alberta, Canada actually did it. Well, it worked, several attendees are now in the hospital, some in ICU. The Health Minister said it’s irresponsible and puts the health care system under “unprecedented pressure.” In the United States cases were down 12%, deaths are up 35%, and hospitalizations are down 10% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,795,988 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in per capita hospitalizations over 14 days are Vermont at 51%, Idaho 33%, Montana 29%, Ohio 27%, and West Virginia 25%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Andrews, TX. Russell, KY. Lewis, WV. Whitley, KY. Harlan, KY. Knox, KY. Braxton, WV. Perry, KY. Scott, TN. And McCreary, KY.  There have been at least 684,286 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 69.1%, Connecticut at 68.1%, and Maine at 67.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia still unchanged at 40.2%, Wyoming at 40.9%, and Idaho at 41%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 54.9%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Ethiopia up 24%, the Philippines 22%, Taiwan 6%, and Thailand and Palestine 3%. Globally, cases were down 12% and deaths were down 8% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,590,619 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 127,463. The U.K. 36,710. India 31,458. Turkey 27,844. And Brazil 24,611.  There have now been at least 4,727,498 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 23rd, 2021. A story for you optimists out there. An analysis by a consortium of researchers advising the CDC indicates the Delta surge looks like it’s peaking. Which means cases and deaths should decline steadily now through the spring as long as there’s not a big winter surge. The analysis was made by combining nine different mathematical models from different research groups. The optimistic model for the next six months also assumes a new and dangerous variant won’t take hold. But the R.1 variant, which originated in Japan, has been identified at a Kentucky nursing home where it infected 45 residents and workers, many of whom were vaccinated. It has mutations that can improve “transmission, replication, and immune suppression.” The FDA gave the okay for extra shots of Pfizer vaccine for seniors and others at high risk. And it’s a little amazing the FDA is functioning as well as it is, because there is no permanent head of that agency. 10 months after the election, the current administration has yet to name one. Public health experts are baffled why this would be the case given the situation we’re in and insiders say staff at the agency is demoralized. The kids are in school, but when it comes to teachers and school staff, there are desperate shortages nationwide. Notes are going to parents saying, “we’re hiring,” Principals are filling in as crossing guards, and of course, schools are moving back to online learning. COVID-19 has triggered a spike in retirements and resignations, for any number of reasons.  Maybe those teachers are home drinking. Even though we hear so many people kvetching about the possible temporary side effects of getting vaccinated, they don’t seem worried about pickling their bodies with alcohol. A new Harris Poll shows nearly 1 in 5 Americans is consuming an unhealthy amount of alcohol. If you don’t know if you’re a heavy drinker or not, it’s defined as two heavy drinking days in a single week at least twice in the previous 30 days. And a "heavy drinking day" is four or more drinks for women and five or more drinks for men. In the United States cases were down 12%, deaths are up 36%, and hospitalizations are down 9% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,757,275 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in per capita hospitalizations over 14 days are Vermont at 52%, Idaho 34%, Montana 33%, Ohio 31%, and West Virginia 28%.   The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Andrews, TX. Russell, KY. Knox, KY. Perry, KY. Lewis, WV. Braxton, WV. Whitley, KY. McCreary, KY. Rockcastle, KY. And Scott, TN.  There have been at least 681,111 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 69%, Connecticut at 68%, and Maine at 67.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 40.2%, Wyoming at 40.8%, and Idaho at 40.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 54.8%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Kosovo up 3%, and Brazil, Australia, Oceana, and New Zealand 2%.   Globally, cases were down 16% and deaths were down 13% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,574,248 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 133,620. Brazil 36,473. The U.K. 34,460. India 31,957. And Turkey 28,168.   There have now been at least... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 22nd, 2021.There are approximately 71 million unvaccinated Americans. And COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. have climbed to an average of more than 1,900 a day for the first time since early March. Many hospitals are full and health care workers demoralized, with patients dying and disbelief about the virus continuing. Dr. William Moss of Johns Hopkins said, “I think this is a failure of society.”Almost 400 Novant Health employees in North Carolina aren’t overworked anymore. They’ve been suspended after failing to comply with the hospital system’s vaccination program. Those who got their first vaccine of Pfizer or Moderna have until October 15 to get the second, or they’re gone too.People who got the Johnson & Johnson booster shot are better protected, and for a longer period of time, according to their own latest trial results. The one-dose vaccine has been found to be 72% protective against severe cases in the U.S. But get a second shot two months later and that protection goes up to 94%.Two big retail groups have asked the Biden administration for at least a 90-day heads up before imposing new rules that’ll require employees at bigger companies to be vaccinated or submit to regular testing. The groups represent brands like Walmart, CVS, Target, and Home Depot and said "there could be as many as 4 million workers who may need to be tested weekly," and they need time and guidance to figure out how that gets done. He’s one of the most famous filmmakers you don’t know, and he has died from COVID. His name is George Holliday. He was actually a plumber in Los Angeles. But it was he who shot the grainy video of four white police officers beating black motorist Rodney King back in 1991, an incident which later sparked massive riots. He was 61 and had been fighting COVID in the hospital for over a month. In the United States cases were up 4%, deaths are up 51%, and hospitalizations are down 8% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,715,410 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in per capita hospitalizations over 14 days are Vermont, the number one most vaccinated state in the United States at 44%, Montana 35%, Idaho 34%, Ohio 32%, and West Virginia 30%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Russell, KY. McCreary, KY. Andrews, TX. Scott, TN. Lewis, WV. Green, KY. Knox, KY. Braxton, WV. Whitley, KY. And Perry, KY. There have been at least 678,405 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 69%, Connecticut at 67.9%, and Maine unchanged at 67.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 40.2%, Wyoming unchanged at 40.6%, and Idaho unchanged at 40.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 54.7%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Pakistan, Oceana, Georgia, Bangladesh, and India all up 2%.  Globally, cases were down 9% and deaths were down 7% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27. There are 18,561,770 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 120,579. The U.K. 31,564. Turkey 29,338. India 27,333. And Russia 19,179.   There have now been at least 4,707,662 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 21st, 2021.It is now official, at least according to the numbers from Johns Hopkins, COVID-19 has now killed as many Americans as the 1918-19 Spanish flu. 675,000 Americans died during the 1918 pandemic, in waves that played out over about two years. But back then there were no vaccines. It wasn’t until the 30s researchers even understood influenza was caused by a virus and not a bacterium.Finally, some much needed good news for travel and tourism. The U.S. said it will allow foreigners to fly into the country this fall if they have vaccination proof and a negative COVID-19 test. That replaces a hodgepodge of rules that kept out non-citizens from countries that frankly, are doing better than the U.S. in containing outbreaks.The school mask fight may soon switch to a vaccine for kids fight. Pfizer said its vaccine works for children 5 to 11 and it will seek U.S. authorization for this age group soon. For elementary school-aged kids, Pfizer tested a much lower dose — a third of the amount that’s in each shot given now. But after the second dose, the kids developed coronavirus-fighting antibody levels equal to that of teens and young adults getting regular-strength shots. Pfizer says the kid dosage also proved safe.Someone just got COVID in American Samoa. That’s newsworthy because, it was their very first case. And even then it was a traveler from Hawaii. Believe it or not there are still countries and territories, mostly islands, that have yet to experience one case of COVID, including the Cook Islands, Saint Helena, the Federated States of Micronesia, Tonga, Tuvalu, and the Pitcairn Islands. Mostly the kinds of places where Survivor is filmed.  No special treatment for the president of Brazil. He’s against vaccinations and would not get vaccinated before attending this week's UN General Assembly in New York. Therefore, he was not allowed inside a New York City restaurant and was told he’d have to eat his pizza slice outside. Which he did. In the United States cases were down 8%, deaths are up 29%, and hospitalizations are down 8% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,748,413 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest daily number of deaths per capita are Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Idaho, and West Virginia.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Knox, KY. Russell, KY. Scott, TN. Andrews, TX. Rockcastle, KY. Lewis, WV. Powell, KY. Perry, KY. Whitley, KY. And Lincoln, MT. There have been at least 676,059 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 68.9%, Connecticut at 67.7%, and Maine at 67.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 40.1%, Wyoming at 40.6%, and Idaho at 40.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 54.6%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Ethiopia up 4%. Kosovo 3%. And Oceana, Thailand, and India 2%.  Globally, cases were down 12% and deaths were down 8% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27. There are 18,639,928 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 85,913. The U.K. 36,100. Turkey 27,688. India 24,925. And Russia 19,744.   There have now been at least 4,699,187 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 20th, 2021.Many are trying to get religious exemptions from the vaccine right now. But religious leaders are saying, we don’t agree with you. Leaders of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America said there’s no exemption for them for religious reasons. The Evangelical Lutheran Church said “there’s no evident basis for religious exemption.” The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York said any priest issuing an exemption letter would be “acting in contradiction” to statements from the Pope. The influential, politically involved Rev. Robert Jeffress of First Baptist megachurch in Dallas said they “are not encouraging members to seek religious exemptions because there’s no credible religious argument against the vaccines. And the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints also doesn’t provide religious exemptions for its members. Some good news around hospitalizations in some areas. The LA County Department of Public Health said they had a decrease of close to 100 people from last week’s hospitalization number. And in Florida they had 417 fewer patients from Saturday to Sunday. COVID patients are occupying 15.9% of inpatient beds.A startling statistic out of Alabama. The state had more people die last year during the onset of the pandemic than were born. That means 2020 will be the first year in the history of the state with more deaths than births.They really aren’t talked about much, the sufferers of long COVID. A study published in the CDC Mortality and Morbidity Weekly Report showed about a third of COVID survivors still had health problems two months later. Long Covid can encompass a wide variety of symptoms and there’s not enough research on who might be more likely to suffer from it.Comedian Chris Rock announced he tested positive for Covid-19. The 56-year-old, who was vaccinated with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, wrote, “Trust me you don’t want this.”In the United States cases were down 8%, deaths are up 29%, and hospitalizations are down 8% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,705,031 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations over 14 days are Vermont and Montana up 38%, Idaho and Ohio 33%, and West Virginia 31%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Knox, KY. Russell, KY. Scott, TN. Andrews, TX. Rockcastle, KY. Lewis, WV. Powell, KY. Perry, KY. Whitley, KY. And Lincoln, MT. There have been at least 673,763 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 68.8%, Connecticut at 67.5%, and Maine at 67.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia again unchanged at 40%, Wyoming at 40.4%, and Idaho at 40.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 54.2%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: India up 4%. Kosovo 3%. Australia 2%. And Argentina and Oceana 1%.  Globally, cases were down 14% and deaths were down 10% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27. There are 18,674,573 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 32,731. India 30,809. The U.K. 29,612. Turkey 26,398. And Russia 20,174.   There have now been at least 4,691,081 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 17th, 2021.Idaho public health leaders yesterday expanded health care rationing statewide. Individual hospital systems in Alaska and Montana have also implemented rationing policies. Increases in COVID-19 patients are exhausting medical resources so those resources are allocated to those most likely to survive.A government watchdog says the Department of Homeland Security must improve its COVID-19 response at the U.S.-Mexico border. Customs and Border Patrol says they don’t have the resources to test symptomatic migrants and has been relying on local public health systems and nongovernmental organizations to handle things. No, vaccine refusal is not just an American conservative thing. France's health minister said 3,000 health care workers across the country have been suspended without pay for refusing to get vaccinated. The deadline was September 15. France has recently seen mass demonstrations opposing the government's vaccine policies.We’ll see if that also happens in Italy. A measure was approved yesterday that applies to all public and private-sector workers and will come into force Oct. 15 that deploys Green Pass requirements. Workers face fines of up to $1,700 and employers who don’t check their workers will also be fined. The new Green Pass mandate will affect about 18 million people. But Italy’s full vaccination rate is already a very high 75%.It's one health condition causing another. A new study ties the pandemic to an “alarming” increase in obesity in U.S. children and teenagers. That speeds up a problem that was already happening, but now the increase is called profound. The sad irony being the pandemic seems to be increasing obesity, and in turn obesity puts people at risk for more severe cases of COVID.In the United States cases were down 9%, deaths are up 29%, and hospitalizations are down 5% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,597,842 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations over 14 days are Montana up 47%, Ohio 39%, West Virginia 31%, And Idaho and Alaska 29%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Knox, KY. Monroe, KY. Powell, KY. Perry, KY. Rockcastle, KY. Russell, KY. Humboldt, NV. Wyoming, WV. Whitley, KY. And Lincoln, MT. There have been at least 669,996 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont again unchanged at 68.7%, Connecticut unchanged at 67.3%, and Maine at 67.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia unchanged at 40%, Wyoming at 40.3%, and Idaho at 40.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 54.1%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Taiwan up 16%. Kosovo and Thailand 4%. And Africa and Nepal 3%.  Globally, cases were down 17% and deaths were down 9% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27. There are 18,671,978 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 151,142. India 34,649. Brazil 34,407. Turkey 28,118. And the U.K. 26,911.   There have now been at least 4,669,300 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 16th, 2021.A tough statistic for the “it’s like the chicken pox” crowd. 19 months into the pandemic, 1 in 500 American residents has died from COVID-19. The death rate for certain demographics age 40-64 is even more stark; for black Americans, 1 in 480 has died, for Hispanics, 1 in 390, and 1 out of every 240 Native Americans have died.Public health officials in Los Angeles County will begin requiring proof of at least one dose of a vaccine by October 7 for customers and employees at indoor bars, wineries, breweries, and nightclubs. By November 4, full vaccination will be required. Government guidelines in England say healthcare staff can decide whether children 12-15 get a vaccine against their parents’ wishes. School headmasters worry this virtually guarantees disruptive protests are right around the corner. Shots will be administered by School Age Immunization Service teams and if parents don’t give their consent but the child is deemed able to make an informed decision and wants the vaccine, the parents will be overruled. There was a time it was believed when someone an anti-vaxxer knew personally died of COVID, it would change their minds. A new Pew poll says maybe not. 72% of American adults know someone who’s been hospitalized or killed. The death count in America is now a few thousand away from surpassing the 1918 Spanish Flu as the single largest death toll from a pandemic in the U.S. It's probably the saddest aspect of the vaccine debate, friends and family ripping themselves apart and ending relationships over their disagreements. A Harris poll shows 33% of vaccinated Americans have stopped seeing people they know because they haven’t been vaccinated. 8% don’t intend to ever socialize with them again even if they do eventually get vaccinated. In the United States cases were down 8%, deaths are up 37%, and hospitalizations are down 4% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 13.  There are 9,523,673 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest increase in hospitalizations over 14 days are Montana up 47%, Ohio 40%, West Virginia 34%, Alaska 31%, and Idaho and New Hampshire 29%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Knox, KY. Perry, KY. Monroe, KY. Martin, KY. Powell, KY. Whitley, KY. White, IL. Lincoln, MT. Russell, KY. And Lewis, WV. There have been at least 666,598 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 68.7%, Connecticut at 67.3%, and Maine at 67%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are West Virginia at 40%, Wyoming at 40.2%, and Idaho at 40.3%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 54%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Ethiopia up 102%. Kosovo 3%. And South America, Oceana, and Australia 2%.  Globally, cases were down 17% and deaths were down 10% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27. There are 18,641,559 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 164,509. The U.K. 30,597. India 30,361. Turkey 28,224. And Iran 19,731.   There have now been at least 4,659,290 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 15th, 2021.The CDC released a new study that examined hospitalizations and deaths from Covid over more than three months and found the unvaccinated are more than 10 times more likely to be hospitalized and 11 times more likely to die. The study also found that as the delta variant became more widespread, protection against initial infections fell slightly.Russian President Vladimir Putin went into self-isolation after people in his inner circle became infected. He himself has reportedly tested negative and is fully vaccinated with Russia's Sputnik V. And Czech President Milos Zeman was hospitalized yesterday. His predecessor is also undergoing tests at the same hospital.With the newly released US mandates, now the courts get to be health experts, advisors, and policy makers. A federal judge has temporarily blocked the state of New York from forcing medical workers to be vaccinated. This after a group of health care workers sued because the state's mandate does not even allow for religious exemptions.Four US military branches now have deadlines for when active-duty, reserve and National Guard service members must be vaccinated. For the Army it’s December 15, with a National Guard deadline of June 30, 2022. For the Air Force it’s November 2, with Reserve personnel vaccinated by December 2. The Navy deadline is November 28 for active duty and December 28 for Reserves. And for the Marines it’s November 28 with reservists vaccinated by December 28.It’s a pattern that’s getting a lot harder to ignore. A fifth conservative radio talk show host has now died of COVID-19, with all five having died in the last six weeks. The latest was Denver’s Bob Enyart. All publicly opposed and refused to get the vaccine.In the United States cases were up 8%, deaths are up 36%, and hospitalizations are down 2% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since September 12.  There are 9,429,080 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the greatest number of daily deaths per capita are Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Georgia.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Perry, KY. Sequatchie, TN. White, TN. Warren, TN. McMinn, TN. Rockcastle, KY. Clay, KY. Bledsoe, TN. Monroe, TN. And Knox, KY. There have been at least 663,923 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 68.7%, Connecticut at 67.2%, and Massachusetts at 66.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming unchanged at 39.9%, West Virginia at 40%, and Idaho at 40.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 53.9%.What age groups are the most fully vaccinated in the United States? According to the Mayo Clinic it’s those 65-74 at 85.5%, then comes 75+ at 79.7%, 50-64 at 71.5%, 40-49 at 62.9%, 25-39 at 53.8%, and 18-24 at 49.6%. In other words, the younger the American, the less likely they are to be vaccinated. Globally, cases were down 11% and deaths were down 9% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27. There are 18,657,926 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 142,059. Turkey 27,802. India 27,491. The U.K. 26,628. And Iran 22,329.   There have now been at least 4,647,792 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 14th, 2021.In a heartbreaking illustration of maxed out hospitals, the staff in one north Alabama hospital contacted 43 others across three states looking for a specialty cardiac ICU bed for patient Ray DeMonia. Most were full with COVID patients, which Ray was not. He wound up in Meridian, Mississippi, about 170 miles away, where he died of a cardiac event shortly after arriving.Looks like Americans are okay with government vaccination mandates. A new Morning Consult/Politico poll shows 58% support them. 62% favor encouraging states to require vaccinations for all school employees; 60% support a mandate for most health care workers with no ability to opt out through regular testing; and 56% support the same rule for most federal workers and contractors.The mantra is the vaccines help keep infections from turning into serious COVID cases. But it does happen. In fact, the Office for National Statistics in England says those who were fully vaccinated accounted for 1.2% of all deaths involving Covid-19 in England so far this year. That number is low and is actually being promoted as proof the vaccines are effective.An international group of scientists including two FDA vaccine reviewers wrote in the science journal Lancet that the average person doesn’t need a booster yet. Their review shows the shots are working well, even against Delta. The White House, which promised to “follow the science,” is continuing to follow a different science and is pressing forward with third shots as soon as later this month. The CDC says Americans should not travel to Afghanistan. Which leads to the obvious response, duh. But it’s not because of that Taliban thing. The country was added to the list of Level 4 high risk areas for COVID. Also added to the list: Belize, Grenada, Mauritius, Saint Kitts and Nevis. Pretty much anyplace tropical and beautiful you’d like to travel to, they say it’s safer for you to stay in the USA, which by the way is now 40th in vaccination rates. In the United States cases were up 8%, deaths are up 36%, and hospitalizations are down 2% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since September 12.  There are 9,396,924 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the biggest increase in hospitalizations per capita: North Dakota 56%, Alaska 43%, Ohio and Montana 42%, And West Virginia 38%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Perry, KY. Sequatchie, TN. White, TN. Warren, TN. McMinn, TN. Rockcastle, KY. Clay, KY. Bledsoe, TN. Monroe, TN. And Knox, KY. There have been at least 661,537 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 68.6%, Connecticut at 67.1%, and Massachusetts and Maine at 66.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming and West Virginia at 39.9%, and Idaho at 40.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 53.8%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Africa and Bangladesh up 3%. And Aruba, Panama, and Oceana 2% Globally, cases were down 13% and deaths were down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27. There are 18,725,144 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 109,432. The U.K. 30,825. Turkey 24,613. India 24,479. And Iran 22,541.   There have now been at least 4,638,578 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots for September 13th, 2021.Guess who’s exempt from the US administration’s recently announced vaccine mandates for all federal employees and contractors? Congress, congressional staffs, and those in the federal court system. That’s because only the executive branch of government can be compelled under the executive order. Still, it creates an enormous layer of hypocrisy and suspicion that probably will not help reassure Americans the vaccines are safe and effective. Adding to that, the Speaker of the House said the House can’t make its members get the vaccine, saying quote, “Here’s the thing. We cannot require someone to be vaccinated. That's just not what we can do. It is a matter of privacy to know who is or who isn't.” Which actually underscores the point many anti-vaxxers have been making. Get ready to go to the UK and dance. Authorities in Britain will not require vaccine passports for entry into nightclubs and other crowded events in England after all. That reverses an earlier plan. The Health Minister said they might reconsider if cases rise exponentially again.Not really sure how they plan on talking the babies out of being born, but a hospital in New York plans to stop delivering them later this month because too many maternity workers resigned rather than get the vaccine. A spokesman from the hospital in Lowville said seven of the 30 people who resigned worked in maternity, and seven more are being non-committal about the vaccine. That health system’s full vaccination rate is above average at 73%.Here’s an interesting way to honor first responders around 9/11, threaten them. Mayor Bill de Blasio said they’ll stop paying police and other city workers who aren’t vaccinated. Only 53% of NYPD employees have gotten at least one dose.They aren’t anti-vaxxers with political agendas. But they won’t keep masks on or socially distance. That’s because they’re gorillas. They’re very social creatures like, you know, us. Atlanta's zoo says at least 13 western lowland gorillas tested positive, including 60-year-old Ozzie, the oldest male gorilla in captivity. They’re being treated with monoclonal antibodies. They believe the gorillas got it from a fully vaccinated, asymptomatic employee. In the United States cases were down 7%, deaths are up 27%, and hospitalizations are flat over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 2.  There are 9,303,506 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the biggest increase in hospitalizations per capita: North Dakota 98%, Alaska 39%, Ohio and West Virginia 37%, And Montana and South Dakota 30%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Perry, KY. White, TN. Clay, KY. Stephens, OK. Whitley, KY. Warren, TN. Russell, KY. Sequatchie, TN. Grayson, KY. And Rockcastle, KY. There have been at least 659,942 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 68.4%, Connecticut at 66.8%, and Massachusetts at 66.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 39.6%, Wyoming at 39.7%, and Idaho at 39.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 53.4%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Sri Lanka, Panama, Argentina, Brazil, and Australia all up 2%.Globally, cases were down 18% and deaths were down 13% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27. There are 18,788,871 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 35,450. India 31,374. The U.K.... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 10th, 2021.In the U.S., the administration announced new steps, including mandates to tackle the pandemic. Those steps include mandating vaccines for federal workers, contractors and certain health care workers, mandates for employees at companies with 100 or more workers to be vaccinated or tested weekly, and a recommendation large venues require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test. The Los Angeles board of education voted to mandate students 12 and older be vaccinated in order to be allowed to come to school. The Los Angeles Unified School District, which has more than 600,000 mostly Latino students, already tests all students and employees weekly, requires masking indoors and outdoors, and has ordered employees to be vaccinated. If we want to know what happens when you vaccinate even younger kids, we can watch Cuba. That government has begun to vaccinate children as young as two. They are using Cuban vaccines and say it’s safe for young children but have provided little data to outside observers to confirm this. If you think the pandemic hasn’t been confusing enough, throw this into the mix. The CDC changed the definitions of vaccine and vaccinated. The changes mostly involve backing away from the word “immunity” and saying it offers “protection,” so as not to raise expectations. A CDC spokesperson said changing the words of a definition doesn’t change the definition.Here’s some good news considering it’s never healthy to hold it in. Peer-reviewed research has found public toilets pose little risk of catching the virus. No evidence of airborne transmission for pathogens was found there. Yes, there was some risk of aerosolization from flushing and those hand blowers, but nothing that increased the chances of transmission.In the United States cases were down 2%, deaths are up 32%, and hospitalizations are up 3% over 14 days. Keep in mind this week’s statistics are affected by changes in reporting over the Labor Day holiday. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since September 2.  There are 9,141,650 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the biggest increase in hospitalizations per capita: North Dakota 106%, South Dakota 64%, West Virginia 49%, Alaska 39%, and Virginia and Ohio 38%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Perry, KY. Rusk, TX. Russell, KY. Taylor, FL. Clay, KY. Dorchester, SC. Nolan, TX. Hendry, FL. Sequatchie, TN. And Monroe, TN. There have been at least 654,576 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 68.3%, Connecticut at 66.7%, and Massachusetts and Maine at 66.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 39.5%, and Wyoming and Mississippi at 39.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 53.3%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Bangladesh up 31%. Vietnam 9%. Thailand 4%. Sri Lanka 3%. And Argentina 2%.Globally, cases were down 11% and deaths were down 9% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27. There are 18,792,324 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 157,827. India 43,406. The U.K. 38,797. Iran 26,854. And Turkey 23,914.  There have now been at least 4,604,426 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 9th, 2021.The World Health Organization is again calling for a moratorium on booster shots, saying rich countries with large supplies should not offer shots through the end of the year so first doses can go to poorer countries. So far that request has been ignored by countries like the United States. The Director General added, “We do not want to see widespread use of boosters for healthy people who are fully vaccinated."Novavax has initiated an early-stage study to test a combined flu and COVID-19 vaccine. The trial will be conducted in Australia. A spokesman said, "Combination of these two vaccines may lead to greater efficiencies and achieve high levels of protection against COVID-19 and influenza with a single regimen.”Some good news for young adult COVID survivors. Research presented at the European Respiratory Society International Congress shows the disease doesn’t appear to have affected lung function. Even patients with asthma showed no statistically significant deterioration. The investigators measured the volume of air in the lungs that can be exhaled after a taking the deepest breath possible and a ratio that’s an indicator of narrowed airways. An analysis shows the pace of new vaccinations in rural America increased for the fourth consecutive week last week. Rural counties reported just over 318,000 rural Americans completed their vaccine regimen last week. That’s 9% higher than the number who were newly vaccinated two weeks ago. 39% of the total rural population is completely vaccinated, up 0.7 percentage points from two weeks ago. Another country has decided it’s going to have to learn to live with COVID and is preparing to do just that. South Korea’s working up a plan on returning life to normal by late October, when 80% of adults are expected to be fully vaccinated. The strategy will be implemented in phases.In the United States cases were up 1%, deaths are up 34%, and hospitalizations are up 4% over 14 days. Keep in mind this week’s statistics are affected by changes in reporting over the Labor Day holiday. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 9,058,897 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the biggest daily volume of deaths per capita: Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, the US Virgin Islands, and South Carolina. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Perry, KY. Rusk, TX. Dorchester, SC. Sequatchie, TN. Monroe, TN. Taylor, FL. Clay, KY. Marion, TN. Richland, LA. And Hendry, FL. There have been at least 652,647 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 68.3%, Connecticut at 66.6%, and Massachusetts at 66.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Wyoming unchanged at 39.3%, Alabama at 39.4%, and Mississippi at 39.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 53.2%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Georgia and Thailand up 4%. And Sri Lanka, Argentina, and Bangladesh 3%.Globally, cases were down 9% and deaths were down 5% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27. There are 18,876,631 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 115,776. India 38,130. The U.K. 37,326. Iran 27,138. And Turkey 23,638.  There have now been at least 4,594,805 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 8th, 2021. Idaho public health leaders have activated “crisis standards of care.” That lets hospitals in the northern part of the state ration health care since there are more patients than they can handle. Residents have been warned they may not get the care they’d normally expect if they need to be hospitalized. Hawaii’s Governor signed an order last week releasing hospitals and health care workers from liability if they must ration health care. Who wouldn’t want “super immunity”? A series of studies has found some people mount an extraordinarily powerful immune response against the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. Their bodies produce very high levels of antibodies and make antibodies with great flexibility that can fight off current and future variants. Who’s most likely to achieve such a thing? People who were infected in 2020 then immunized with mRNA vaccines in 2021. Reports say "those people have amazing responses to the vaccine."  It's question and answer time. What are the chances you’ll get COVID-19 if you’re fully vaccinated? According to new data reported by the New York Times, it’s 1 in 5,000. What are the chances you’ll be hospitalized from COVID if you’re fully vaccinated? The same report suggests that number is 1 in every 1 million. Malaysia will be the first country to declare Covid-19 an endemic as opposed to a pandemic. This change will happen around the end of October. Covid would be endemic when the virus that causes the disease becomes permanent in the community and keeps circulating among the population. Other endemics include flu, dengue, and malaria.   An ABC News poll asked unvaccinated workers whose employers haven’t imposed a vaccine mandate yet what they’d do if it became mandatory. 16% would get vaccinated, 35% would ask for a medical or religious exemption and 42% would quit. Asked what they’d do if they couldn’t get an exemption, the number who would quit goes up to an astonishing 72%.  In the United States cases were flat, deaths are up 34%, and hospitalizations are up 4% over 14 days. Keep in mind this week’s statistics are affected by changes in reporting over the Labor Day holiday. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are once again over 9 million active cases in the United States, at 9,015,387. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the biggest 14-day increase in hospitalizations: North Dakota up 103%. South Dakota 72%. West Virginia 47%. Maine 38%. And Wyoming and Virginia 37%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Perry, KY. Rusk, TX. Dorchester, SC. Sequatchie, TN. Monroe, TN. Taylor, FL. Clay, KY. Marion, TN. Richland, LA. And Hendry, FL.  There have been at least 650,511 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated was not updated and remain: Vermont at 68.1%, Connecticut at 66.4%, and Massachusetts at 66.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 39.1%, Wyoming at 39.3%, and Idaho at 39.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 53%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Vietnam, Guatemala, and South Korea up 4%. And Pakistan and Morocco 3%. Globally, cases were down 11% and deaths were down 8% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,888,092 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 114,626. The U.K. 41,088. India 30,184. Iran 27,579. And the Philippines 22,380.  There... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 7th, 2021. Like healthcare workers, they are most at risk. And like many healthcare workers, they are reluctant to get the vaccine. No national statistics show the vaccination rate for America's entire population of first responders, but police and fire departments report figures far below the national rate of adults who have had at least one dose. Increasingly, mandates are putting jobs at risk for refusal to take the shots.  You really have to wonder what’s going on behind the scenes. Now, the CDC says masks are no longer required indoors or outdoors in most settings if you’re fully vaccinated. The news came as a shock after a steady drumbeat of guidance that the fully vaccinated can get Covid, spread Covid, and host new variants of Covid. Regardless, the White House is promoting the new guidance on social media.  There are reports researchers recently discovered antibodies that can neutralize a range of variants and coronaviruses. This could lead to better post-infection treatments if true. They studied survivors, looking for antibodies that may be resistant to losing their effectiveness against variants and new viruses. One antibody showed a high breadth of effectiveness. Another bound well with all respiratory viruses and prevented COVID-19 infections in animal subjects. How bad is the nursing shortage? Right now, close to 15,000 RN positions are available in North Carolina alone. And there are 5,500 job openings for nursing assistants and LPNs. There’s also a shortage of school nurses. In fact, that was happening even before the pandemic. The CDC says there should be a nurse for every 750 students, but nearly a fourth of all schools in the US don’t have one at all.  You want to get tough on people who put others at risk of the virus but, do you want to get communist country tough? Vietnam put a 28-year-old man in jail for five years Monday for breaking quarantine rules. His trial lasted one day. Despite that severity, Vietnam’s outbreak is worsening, with the vast majority of its 13,385 deaths happening in the last few months. In the United States cases were down 12%, deaths are up 31%, and hospitalizations are up 9% over 14 days. But keep in mind that for this and most of today’s statistics, there’s an artificial dip due to lack of reporting over the Labor Day holiday. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 8,863,957 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the biggest 14-day increase in hospitalizations: North Dakota up 379%. South Dakota 79%. West Virginia 52%. Tennessee 50%. And Maine 42%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Rusk, TX. Dorchester, SC. Taylor, FL. Russell, KY. Uvalde, TX. Hendry, FL. Butte, SD. Hardee, FL. Pike, OH. And Wayne, MS.  There have been at least 649,023 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 68.1%, Connecticut at 66.4%, and Massachusetts at 66.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 39.1%, Wyoming at 39.3%, and Idaho at 39.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 53%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Panama up 3%. And Oceana, Bangladesh, Argentina, and India 2%. Globally, cases were down 16% and deaths were down 10% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,811,819 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The U.K. 41,192. The United States 39,644. India 30,184.... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 6th, 2021. Full steam ahead in the U.S. with booster shots, even though the EU, the World Health Organization, and even the CDC says it could be premature and possibly unnecessary right now. It’s believed boosters will be available September 20 for Pfizer, with Moderna’s rolling out a couple weeks later. The President said Americans should consider getting a booster 8 months after their second shot. Israel is so bought into boosters they’re actually getting ready to administer fourth doses of the vaccines. Cases are soaring there despite world-leading vaccinations. Their national coronavirus czar said new injections could better protect against new variants of the virus and could be needed every few months. He said, “This is our life from now on.” There's nothing yet to suggest the current vaccines won’t work against the new Mu variant. But as always, science doesn’t seem to know for sure. What is known is it’s already made its way to nearly every state in the U.S. and 39 countries. And it’s been here awhile. It was first detected in Colombia in January. Right now, the variant only accounts for less than 1% of all Covid-19 samples sequenced in the U.S. Some vaccine passport news. They’ll be required in indoor venues in England starting the end of this month. There are critics but the Health Minister said this is the way to keep the economy open. And Japan will issue vaccination certificates starting mid-December. Those are mostly meant for overseas travel via a QR code on smartphones. Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady confirmed he tested positive for Covid-19 in February, soon after the team’s boat parade that celebrated their Super Bowl win. He’s since been vaccinated. In the United States cases were up 8%, deaths are up 55%, and hospitalizations are up 11% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 8,823,289 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the biggest 14-day increase in hospitalizations: North Dakota up 331%. South Dakota 88%. West Virginia 56%. Maine 53%. And Wyoming and Tennessee 51%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Russell, KY. Perry, KY. Rusk, TX. Uvalde, TX. Bell, KY. Marion, TN. Clay, KY. Dorchester, SC. Glynn, GA. And Taylor, FL.  There have been at least 648,467 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 68%, Connecticut unchanged at 66.2%, and Massachusetts at 66.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 38.5%, Alabama at 38.6%, and Wyoming at 39.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 52.7%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Panama and Kosovo up 3%. And Sri Lanka, Argentina, and Australia 2%. Globally, cases were down 9% and deaths were down 7% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,924,449 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 39,521. The U.K. 37,011. The United States 35,586. Iran 25,870. And Malaysia 20,396.  There have now been at least 4,566,726 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 3rd, 2021.The CDC says if you’re not vaccinated, you should cancel any travel plans you might have for the long Labor Day weekend. Holidays have always been worrisome to health officials because they often result in spikes. But this spike would occur on top of the Delta surge. Last year, even without vaccines available, more than 3 million airline passengers were screened over the Labor Day holiday.More than 500,000 children in the US tested positive from August 5 to August 26, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Since kids under 12 can’t get vaccinated, an increasing number of states and school districts are imposing mask mandates. Others are trying to limit exposure among the unvaccinated. A new study of breakthrough infections in the UK finds vaccines not only reduce the risk of severe disease and hospitalization, but they can lower the odds you’ll have long-term symptoms. They found the odds of having symptoms for 28 days or more after a post-vaccination infection were just about cut in half. The European Medicines Agency is joining the World Health Organization in going against the United States where booster shots are concerned. It said there’s no urgent need for booster shots for fully vaccinated people and the emphasis and supply should stay focused on primary vaccinations. If you think people who are against the vaccine aren’t serious, observe how many are willing to give up their careers over it. We’ve seen it in healthcare, law enforcement, fire departments, and now America’s pastime. Longtime Washington Nationals Vice President Bob Boone has chosen to resign rather than comply with orders to vaccinate. Two scouts are also leaving the team for that reason. Boone joined the Nationals in 2005, and as a player was with the Phillies, Cardinals, and Royals.In the United States cases were up 14%, deaths are up 67%, and hospitalizations are up 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 8,650,330 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the biggest 14-day increase in hospitalizations: North Dakota up 304%. South Dakota 105%. Wyoming 65%. And New Hampshire, West Virginia, and Delaware 59%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Perry, KY. Taylor, FL. Clinton, KY. Marion, TN. Hardee, FL. Bell, KY. Dorchester, SC. Glynn, GA. Bledsoe, TN. And Sequatchie, TN.There have been at least 643,594 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont again unchanged at 67.9%, Connecticut at 66.2%, and Massachusetts at 66%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi and Alabama at 38.4%, and Wyoming at 38.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 52.6%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Sri Lanka up 6%. Nepal 5%. Vietnam 4%. And South Korea and Argentina 3%.Globally, cases were down 7% and deaths were down 20% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27. There are 18,803,773 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 177,568. India 45,482. The U.K. 38,154. Iran 30,279. And Brazil 26,497.  There have now been at least 4,550,984 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 2nd, 2021.The World Health Organization has another “variant of interest” to watch. It’s being called the Mu variant and there are concerns it may partially evade the immunity developed from past infection or vaccination. The variant has been detected in 39 countries. It was first identified in Colombia in January. A new survey shows most firms are now planning on having vaccine mandates for their workforce, and that will be happening in the next several months. While 21% of firms currently have some vaccine mandate in place, 52% said they’d have one by the fourth quarter of this year.The approach is a good bit different in Florida. The state will start issuing $5,000 fines to businesses, schools and government agencies that require people show proof of vaccination. That will start September 16.The great missing data problem continues. An NPR analysis found that in trying to get more detailed information from the CDC, such as where patients live, whether they were hospitalized or died, demographic details, it comes up that about 1 in 5 known cases — or 7 million people — are completely missing. And about two-thirds of the data present is unusable with fields left blank or marked "Unknown.” Some states have submitted less than one-tenth of their total cases. A 24-year-old woman from Illinois is not quite as slick as she thought she was. She submitted a fake vaccination card to visit Hawaii which didn’t work at all. Mainly because she misspelled Moderna. Also, she lived in Illinois but her make believe shot was taken in Delaware, so that was suspicious. And the hotel she said she’d be staying at had no reservation for her. Having failed at the crime of the century, she was arrested for two misdemeanors and is awaiting a hearing.In the United States cases were up 18%, deaths are up 75%, and hospitalizations are up 17% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 8,532,849 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the biggest 14-day increase in hospitalizations: South Dakota up 103%. Delaware 70%. Wyoming 67%. New Hampshire 61%. And West Virginia 59%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Marion, TN. Perry, KY. Taylor, FL. Clinton, KY. Bledsoe, TN. Bell, KY. Lewis, TN. Sequatchie, TN. Hardee, FL. And Glynn, GA. There have been at least 642,004 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 67.9%, And Massachusetts and Connecticut at 66%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi still unchanged at 37.7%, Alabama at 38.3%, and Wyoming at 38.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 52.4%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Sri Lanka up 7%. Vietnam 4%. And South Korea, South Africa, and Ukraine 3%.Globally, cases were down 5% and deaths were down 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27. There are 18,679,281 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 184,420. India 45,971. The U.K. 35,693. Iran 33,170. And Brazil 26,348.  There have now been at least 4,541,140 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 1st, 2021. The EU says it’s now hit its target of fully vaccinating 70% of adults by the end of summer. They’re calling it a great achievement, but the World Health Organization says the pace of vaccinations in the continent now appears to be faltering, and parts of Europe are at risk of fresh outbreaks and new restrictions. As far as Denmark is concerned, COVID is over. That country is set to remove all remaining measures against the spread except for border controls September 10, and the government says its epidemic is "under control." The Netherlands ended most restrictions in June only to see Delta increase case numbers over 500% in one week. If you Moderna people are having a friendly rivalry with your Pfizer friends, you win. A study of Belgian healthcare workers shows Moderna resulted in higher antibody levels than Pfizer. And that was true in infected as well as uninfected participants, across age categories.  Policies are supposed to follow the data, but the data consistently shows problems with reliability. This time, newly backfilled data from Tennessee’s department of health reveals the number of coronavirus patients hospitalized to be about 5,100 more than was reported over the past 14 months. That’s a discrepancy of more than 20%. A new Axios poll finds vaccine hesitancy in the United States has been dropping over the past few weeks. 20% said they’re still unlikely to get a vaccine — but that’s the lowest level since the index started tracking opposition. That’s down from a high of 63% in September 2020. In the United States cases were up 12%, deaths are up 91%, and hospitalizations are up 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 8,435,577 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the biggest 14-day increase in hospitalizations per capita: South Dakota up 111%. Delaware 85%. New Hampshire 73%. West Virginia 69%. And Wyoming 66%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Taylor, FL. Bell, KY. Clay, KY. Clinton, KY. Whitley, KY. Perry, KY. Hardee, FL. Pierce, GA. Cook, GA. And Dodge, GA.  There have been at least 640,088 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.9%, And Massachusetts and Connecticut at 65.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi unchanged at 37.7%, Alabama at 38.1%, and Wyoming unchanged at 38.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 52.4%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Thailand up 6%. South Korea, Panama, and Vietnam 4%. And Brazil 3%. Globally, cases were down 1% and deaths were flat over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,642,259 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 156,002. India 43,072. The U.K. 32,181. Iran 31,319. And Brazil 25,586.  There have now been at least 4,517,377 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 31st, 2021.Take an area with high concentrations of COVID, with a shortage of ICU beds, patients on ventilators, and challenges keeping health care staff working. Then hit it with a Category 4 hurricane and you have the situation in Louisiana. Hospitals had to evacuate over 160 patients, the storm tore off parts of roofs, and left water leaking down walls to pool on floors. Generators kicked in for electricity and some hospitals used water from private wells. And now new patients have begun showing up with storm-related injuries. As we said yesterday to expect, the EU recommended its 27 nations reinstate restrictions on tourists from the U.S. That reverses advice it gave in June, when the recommendation was to lift restrictions before the summer tourism season. However, the EU has no unified COVID-19 tourism policy, and each government can decide whether or not to close their borders.The last thing we want to report on is a new COVID variant. But a report says a mutation first detected in South Africa, C.1.2, appears to have mutated the most from the original virus, almost double the global mutation rate seen in any other existing variant of concern. Scientists have found 14 mutations in nearly 50% of the variants that had a C.1.2 sequence.In Israel, new daily infections have just climbed to record levels. Around 63% of the population there has been fully vaccinated. In late July, Israel began offering everyone over 60 a booster dose, and that program is being rapidly expanded. Boosters have been available to everyone over 30 since a week ago.A judge in OH has issued an emergency order telling a hospital they have to treat a coronavirus patient with ivermectin. That’s the controversial antiparasitic drug that hasn’t yet been approved by the FDA as a COVID treatment. In fact, some have taken a version of the drug intended for animals and died of overdoses in the process. In the United States cases were up 20%, deaths are up 96%, and hospitalizations are up 24% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 8,345,850 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the biggest 14-day increase in hospitalizations per capita: South Dakota up 117%. Delaware 89%. New Hampshire 80%. West Virginia 74%. And Maine 73%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Taylor, FL. Clay, KY. Cook, GA. Pierce, GA. Bell, KY. McIntosh, GA. Hardee, FL. Live Oak, TX. Emanuel, GA. And Crockett, TN. There have been at least 638,676 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.8%, And Massachusetts and Connecticut at 65.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 37.7%, Alabama at 37.9%, and Wyoming at 38.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 52.3%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Argentina, Jordan, and Suriname all up 2%. Globally, cases were up 1% and deaths were up 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending flat since August 27. There are 18,607,957 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 119,642. Iran 33,780. India 30,251. The U.K. 26,476. And the Philippines 22,366.  There have now been at least 4,508,896 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 30th, 2021. A UK study published in Lancet says people who get the Delta variant are more than twice as likely to be hospitalized as those infected with the alpha strain. Early studies of the Delta variant found it was 50% more transmissible than other strains. The study’s author said absent vaccination, Delta outbreaks will keep imposing a huge burden on healthcare.  If you’re an American who had plans to travel to the EU for fun, start thinking about new plans. The block of nations is expected to announce today that you are too risky to let in. The U.S. is expected to get pulled from the EU’s “safe” list for non-essential travel after being on that list less than two months. Of course, the U.S. has maintained its ban on all non-essential travel from Europe. Stressed as healthcare workers are, many continue to refuse to set an example. An American Nurses Association survey shows 1 in 8 nurses still aren’t vaccinated and have no plans to get vaccinated. Of those who won’t take the shot, 84% said there’s not enough info about possible long-term effects. Such nurses have started being fired, adding to critical staff shortages.  If you’re not scared of COVID maybe you’re afraid of snakes. A new published medical study says getting the virus is not unlike being bitten by a poisonous rattlesnake. An enzyme has been identified in the virus that ravages the body like snake venom and causes severe inflammation. It’s hoped that targeting that enzyme will help with treatments for COVID.  Another shortage might be coming right behind the nursing shortage. School board members. Across the nation, many are deciding the position is just not worth it amidst tense, sometimes violent confrontations about masking in schools. Many are being harassed, threatened, and some have even contemplated suicide. Others are quitting over policies they disagree with. In the United States cases were up 20%, deaths are up 95%, and hospitalizations are up 25% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are once again over 8 million active cases in the United States, at 8,184,348. With not all states reporting daily numbers, the five states with the biggest 14-day increase in hospitalizations per capita: South Dakota up 104%. New Hampshire 90%. Delaware 77%. Maine 75%. And West Virginia 66%.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Taylor, FL. Clay, KY. Cook, GA. Pierce, GA. Bell, KY. McIntosh, GA. Hardee, FL. Live Oak, TX. Emanuel, GA. And Crockett, TN.  There have been at least 637,525 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.6%, Massachusetts at 65.6%, and Connecticut at 65.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 37%, Mississippi unchanged at 37.3%, and Wyoming unchanged at 38.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is at 51.9%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Sri Lanka, Australia, and India up 2%. And South Korea and Malaysia 1%.  Globally, cases were down 1% and deaths were up 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since August 27.  There are 18,589,957 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 43,381. The United States 37,262. The U.K. 33,196. Iran 31,516. And Japan 22,748.  There have now been at least 4,500,291 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 27th, 2021.Kentucky and Texas joined a growing list of states seeing record numbers of hospitalized patients in a surge that’s afflicting more children. Wednesday, both reported more patients in their hospitals than at any other time since the pandemic began. In New Mexico, health officials warned they’re about a week away from rationing health care. And in Idaho, state leaders called on residents to volunteer to help keep medical facilities operating.U.S. health regulators could approve a third booster shot for adults beginning only six months after full vaccination, instead of the previously announced eight-months. Approval of boosters for Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson is expected in mid-September. Pfizer’s already started the application process for approval of its booster shot for those 16 and older, saying it spurs a more than three-fold increase in antibodies. If you’re worried about getting a blood clot from the vaccine, you have a bigger problem. COVID. A new peer-reviewed study out of Oxford shows the risk of rare blood clotting is significantly higher from Covid-19, than from vaccination. Researchers estimated 107 out of 10 million people would be hospitalized or die from low platelet counts within 28 days of getting a first dose of AstraZeneca vaccine, while that number rose to 934 people per 10 million after a positive test for Covid.New research in the journal Nature says around one third of Americans had been infected with Covid-19 by the end of 2020. That’s a number much higher than what official testing detected. The model showed around 103 million Americans had been infected while the CDC data puts the figure at only 20.5 million. How do Americans feel about employers imposing vaccine mandates? Split, as always. A new AP poll shows half are in favor, half aren’t. Same for workplace mask mandates, half in favor, half opposed. The results are a bit different for Black and Hispanic workers, both of whom tend to be more supportive of vaccine and mask mandates.  In the United States cases were up 23%, deaths are up 111%, and hospitalizations are up 32% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 7,958,077 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 21,183. Texas 18,112. California 12,622. Georgia 10,823. And North Carolina 8,620. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Cook, GA. Clay, KY. Pierce, GA. Brantley, GA. Dodge, GA. Hancock, MS. Nome Census Area, AK. Glynn, GA. Berrien, GA. And McIntosh, GA. There have been at least 633,479 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 67.5%, Massachusetts at 65.5%, and Connecticut and Maine at 65.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 36.8%, Mississippi at 37.3%, and Wyoming at 38.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 51.7%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Georgia, South Korea, and Ukraine up 4%. And El Salvador and Argentina 3%.  Globally, cases were up 2% and deaths were up 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are 18,331,093 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 169,953. India 44,558. The U.K. 38,281. Iran 36,758. And Brazil 31,024.  There have now been at least 4,472,870 deaths reported as Covid-related... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 26th, 2021. The international scientists sent to China by the World Health Organization to find the coronavirus’ origin said yesterday, get ready to not be surprised, the search has stalled and the window of opportunity for ever getting to the truth is “closing fast.” And the U.S. intelligence review ordered up by the US proved inconclusive. So the world’s scientists and governments have proven incapable of finding out how this happened so we can help prevent it from happening again.  The new Governor of New York acknowledged on her first day in office the state has had nearly 12,000 more deaths from COVID-19 than her predecessor Andrew Cuomo told the public. She said, “The public deserves an honest picture of what’s happening. Good or bad, they need to know the truth. And that’s how we restore confidence.” Another blow for those who believe the vaccines are more dangerous than getting COVID-19 itself. A study from Israel says an infection carries a far higher risk of heart inflammation than Pfizer’s vaccine. 3 cases of heart inflammation for every 100,000 people vaccinated with Pfizer and 11 per 100,000 in people who had COVID. We’re starting to see more sticks and fewer carrots. Delta is going to charge employees on its company health plan $200 a month extra if they don’t get vaccinated. It says the average hospital stay for the virus costs them $40,000. They’re also stopping extending pay protection to unvaccinated workers who get COVID starting September 30. Oh wait, there are still companies using carrots. Well, hardly carrots. Krispy Kreme has upped the ante and will give two free donuts every day until September 5 to anyone who shows proof of vaccination. Krispy Kreme has given out 2.5 million donuts since March when they started giving people one free donut, and they’ll go back to the one donut deal after September 5 for the rest of the year. In the United States cases were up 23%, deaths are up 111%, and hospitalizations are up 32% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 7,829,286 active cases in the United States. With not all states reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 26,203. Texas 21,961. California 13,583. Georgia 10,677. And Louisiana 6,619.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Cook, GA. Clay, KY. Pierce, GA. Brantley, GA. Dodge, GA. Hancock, MS. Nome Census Area, AK. Glynn, GA. Berrien, GA. And McIntosh, GA.  There have been at least 632,223 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. NPR did not update the top and bottom vaccinating states so they remain: 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.5%, Massachusetts at 65.4%, and Connecticut and Maine at 65.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 36.6%, Mississippi at 36.8%, and Wyoming at 37.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 51.5%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Georgia up 8%. South Korea 5%. And El Salvador, Morocco, and Suriname 3%.   Globally, cases were flat and deaths were up 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 18,196,147 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 171,737. India 46,397. Iran 39,983. The U.K. 35,847. And Brazil 30,529.  There have now been at least 4,461,819 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 25th, 2021.Back to school didn’t go terribly well. A few weeks in, more and more school districts have given up on in-person learning or switched to hybrid models because of rising infections. More than 80 school districts or charter networks in more than a dozen states have made changes. The US President will be receiving a classified report on the origins of the coronavirus. The review was ordered back in May and involves intelligence agencies rechecking anything that could shed light on this important question. But many intelligence and science experts say don’t get your hopes up, they’re doubtful the report will put the question to rest, and it will be added to the “guess we’ll never know” column.  This news is so disturbing because few other nations have done as well in terms of both vaccinations and now booster shots than Israel. But new daily coronavirus infections in Israel are approaching record levels. The delta variant is pervasive, even amongst the vaccinated. Officials point to this as evidence the initial round of vaccines become less effective over time.Just like Alabama, Arkansas has said that’s it…there are no more ICU beds for COVID patients here. It’s the first time since the beginning of the pandemic the state has been maxed out as Arkansas hit a new record Monday for patients on ventilators.Remember when country music star Reba McEntire said she and her boyfriend had COVID-19? Never mind. She genuinely thought they did but her test was a false positive. They actually had a common respiratory virus, RSV. She learned the truth after getting an antibody test. RSV does copy many of the symptoms of COVID. She said, “It takes the energy plumb out of you.”In the United States cases were up 29%, deaths are up 91%, and hospitalizations are up 39% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 7,702,120 active cases in the United States.With not all states reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 21,208. Texas 17,403. California 14,583. Georgia 9,186. And Tennessee 5,153. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Cook, GA. Dimmit, TX. Crockett, TN. Wayne, MS. Clarke, MS. Pierce, GA. Clay, KY. Hancock, MS. Berrien, GA. And McIntosh, GA. There have been at least 630,663 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.5%, Massachusetts at 65.4%, and Connecticut and Maine unchanged at 65.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 36.6%, Mississippi unchanged at 36.8%, and Wyoming unchanged at 37.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 51.5%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Suriname up 7%. South Korea 6%. Kyrgyzstan 4%. And South Africa and Georgia 3%.  Globally, cases were up 3% and deaths were up 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are now once again over 18 million active cases around the world, at 18,046,186.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 147,619. India 51,016. Iran 40,623. Brazil 31,014. And the U.K. 30,838.  There have now been at least 4,450,408 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 24th, 2021.As expected, now that the Pfizer vaccine has full FDA approval, the Pentagon will require all service members to get vaccinated. Over the past month, the number of service member deaths from COVID jumped from 25 to 34 – more than a one third increase.The head of the World Health Organization is calling for a 2-month moratorium on booster shots to reduce global vaccine inequality. He says he’s “really disappointed” that many countries struggle to provide first and second doses while rich countries like the United States are moving forward with third doses from stockpiled vaccines.Historically committed as they are, 75 doctors from a hospital in Palm Beach Gardens in South Florida walked out of their shifts to bring attention to how hard the surge has been on facilities and staff. They say 85% of ICU beds in the state are full and urged people to “ignore the nonsense and absurdities you’re hearing at public meetings and recognize the value of what a vaccine will do.”No state should brag about how well they handled the pandemic. Take Oregon. It was held up as an example as it imposed some of the strictest safety measures like mask mandates for indoors and outdoors, limits on gatherings, and restaurant closures. Now the state has more people hospitalized with COVID than ever before. One Chief Medical Officer said the early success may have actually helped the Delta variant because the aggressive measures left many population pockets with no immunity. Six more destinations have been added to the CDC’s highest-risk destinations for travelers. They are Bahamas, Haiti, Kosovo, Lebanon, Morocco, and Sint Maarten. To hit this category a country has to have had more than 500 cases per 100,000 residents in the past 28 days.In the United States cases were up 36%, deaths are up 95%, and hospitalizations are up 43% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 7,597,700 active cases in the United States.Keeping in mind several states stopped reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 14,621. California 10,136. Texas 8,317. Georgia 6,734. And North Carolina 5,184. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Cook, GA. Nome Census Area, AK. Dimmit, TX. Clarke, MS. George, MS. Hancock, MS. Berrien, GA. Tift, GA. Wayne, MS. And Neshoba, MS.There have been at least 629,390 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.4%, Massachusetts at 65.3%, and Connecticut and Maine at 65.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 36.3%, Mississippi at 36.8%, and Wyoming at 37.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 51.5%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Bangladesh up 3%. And Malaysia, Argentina, Saudi Arabia, and Sri Lanka 2%.  Globally, cases were up 4% and deaths were up 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are 17,996,230 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 111,134. Iran 38,657. The U.K. 31,914. Japan 22,285. And Russia 19,454.  There have now been at least 4,440,279 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 23rd, 2021. By the time you hear this podcast, the Moderna vaccine may have full FDA approval. And that’s going to likely result in many more vaccine mandates from businesses, municipalities, education facilities, venues, etc. Why? Because it removes some of the risk of successful legal challenges. The FDA has been conducting months of additional safety and efficacy data on the vaccines. Not to be forgotten amidst all the talk of vaccines are treatments. Regeneron's antibody cocktail, which has emergency use authorization from the FDA, treats symptoms in patients at high risk of developing severe symptoms. And the demand for it is going way up. In July, orders were for about 25,000 doses per week. Now it's up to 125,000 per week. It’s a mix of two antibodies that bind to the spike protein of the virus, blocking it from infecting healthy cells. The Rev. Jesse Jackson, and his wife, Jacqueline, are hospitalized in Chicago and are reportedly “responding positively to treatments” for COVID-19. Jesse Jackson is 79, and his wife is 77. He has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s. He had been vaccinated. If you think Mississippi has been lax in responding to the pandemic, check this out. A new order went out saying anyone infected must isolate for 10 days or face possible misdemeanor or even felony charges. A misdemeanor would get you a $500 fine, 6 months in prison or both. But since the coronavirus is life-threatening, you could be charged with a felony punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 or 5 years imprisonment, or both. If you’ve ever wondered why people believe in conspiracy theories, one new study says it’s either from fear or for fun. The study published in the British Journal of Psychology says actively participating in a conspiracy give those who feel powerless a feeling they’re taking some kind of action. Or, conspiratorial content was found to elicit “stronger entertainment appraisals and intense emotions.” Meaning conspiracies are exciting and give people a rush. In the United States cases were up 36%, deaths are up 95%, and hospitalizations are up 43% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 7,427,282 active cases in the United States. Keeping in mind several states stopped reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: California 6,222. New York 4,047. Arizona 3,307. Texas 3,271. And Ohio 2,194. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Cook, GA. Nome Census Area, AK. Dimmit, TX. Clarke, MS. George, MS. Hancock, MS. Berrien, GA. Tift, GA. Wayne, MS. And Neshoba, MS. There have been at least 628,499 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.2%, Massachusetts unchanged at 65%, and Maine at 64.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 35.9%, Mississippi unchanged at 36.2%, and Wyoming at 37.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 51.1%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Suriname up 6%. Sri Lanka 5%. And Pakistan, Argentina, and Malaysia 3%. Globally, cases were up 3% and deaths were up 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are 17,942,283 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Iran 36,419. The U.K. 32,253. The United States 30,810. Japan 25,492. And India 25,420. There have now been at least 4,430,758 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 20th, 2021. The World Health Organization is making it clear it is not happy with countries like the United States moving on to third booster shots. The Africa director warned such countries “make a mockery of vaccine equity.” Less than 2% of Africa’s population is fully vaccinated. In Alabama, there aren’t any more available ICU beds. The state has run out. In fact there were negative 29 ICU beds available Wednesday night. State health officials say, "We've never been here before." Also, Alabama surpassed Florida as the state with the highest rate of children hospitalized with Covid after the number of kids admitted increased 333% in one week.  Needing an ICU bed and being unvaccinated may be a deadly combination if you’re in Texas. Doctors there have been told if ICU bed availability becomes an issue, they can consider vaccination status as part of triage. Doctors have noted unvaccinated patients are suffering worse outcomes. Meaning all other things being equal, vaccinated people are deemed more likely to survive.  Washington state joins those expanding vaccine mandates to include all public, charter and private school teachers and staff — and anyone working at state colleges and universities. And there is no weekly testing alternative. Those unvaccinated by Oct. 18 risk losing their jobs.  The unvaccinated have an answer for their critics. We didn’t do this, you did. A new YouGov poll shows slightly more unvaccinated Americans blame vaccinated Americans for Delta’s surge than blame themselves. 6% blame themselves, 7% blame the vaccinated. A full one third blame the US administration and the CDC.  In the United States cases were up 47%, deaths are up 97%, and hospitalizations are up 56% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 7,198,006 actives cases in the United States. Keeping in mind several states stopped reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Texas 17,752. Florida 15,402. California 14,019. Georgia 9,836. And North Carolina 7,020.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Neshoba, MS. Cook, GA. Clay, KY. George, MS. Stone, MS. Columbia, FL. Tift, GA. Clarke, MS. Crockett, TN. And Attala, MS. There have been at least 625,153 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont again unchanged at 67.1%, Massachusetts at 65%, and Maine at 64.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama unchanged at 35.7%, Mississippi at 36.2%, and Wyoming unchanged at 37.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 51%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Malawi up 7%. Eswatini 6%. Kyrgyzstan 4%. And Malaysia and Morocco 3%.  Globally, cases were up 8% and deaths were up 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 17,652,034 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 154,917. India 37,312. The U.K. 36,572. Brazil 35,991. And Iran 31,266.  There have now been at least 4,401,878 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 19th, 2021. As expected, U.S. health officials announced booster shots of Pfizer and Moderna should be available for all U.S. adults starting next month. It is an acknowledgement that the effectiveness of the vaccines could wear off significantly in as little as eight months. Officials said those who got the single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine will also probably need another shot, but they aren’t releasing plans for that yet. Another mandate coming out of the White House yesterday; all nursing home staff will be required to be vaccinated or the facilities they work in could lose Medicare and Medicaid funding. That could also take effect as soon as next month. Hundreds of thousands of nursing home workers are not vaccinated. Why is it so important vaccine booster shots help protect against the Delta variant? Because those cases now make up more than 98.8% of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., according to the CDC.  California has become the first state to require people to prove they’ve been vaccinated or have a negative test before they can attend any large indoor event with over 1,000 people. That could be conventions, conferences, expos, sporting events, and concerts. Event organizers will be in charge of enforcement. If you’re supposed to wear a mask in Singapore, you should probably do it. Benjamin Glynn, a 40-year-old Brit living in Singapore for work, was filmed maskless on a public train. He was arrested and found guilty of that plus causing public nuisance and threatening public officials. At first, he was detained at a psychiatric hospital because he said COVID-19 was a hoax.  In the United States cases were up 47%, deaths are up 97%, and hospitalizations are up 54% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are once again over 7 million active cases in the United States, at 7,089,424. Keeping in mind several states stopped reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 23,335. Texas 18,434. California 13,023. Georgia 8,014. And Louisiana 6,606.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Neshoba, MS. Cook, GA. Clay, KY. George, MS. Stone, MS. Columbia, FL. Tift, GA. Clarke, MS. Crockett, TN. And Attala, MS. There have been at least 624,209 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 67.1%, Massachusetts unchanged at 64.9%, and Maine at 64.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 35.7%, Mississippi at 36.1%, and Wyoming at 37.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 50.9%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Bangladesh, Kyrgyzstan, Sri Lanka, and South Korea up 5%. And Zimbabwe 4%.  Globally, cases were up 5% and deaths were up 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 17,477,559 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 158,127. Brazil 40,693. Iran 39,174. India 35,797. And the U.K. 33,904.  There have now been at least 4,391,153 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 18th, 2021.Not all nations are reluctant to lock down, and New Zealand's one of them. The entire nation was put into strict lockdown for at least three days yesterday after discovery of one single case of infection. The Prime Minister said, "We’ve seen what happens elsewhere if we fail to get on top of it. We only get one chance.”Round three. The U.S. government is reportedly about to offer booster shots to all Americans as soon as next month. The recommendation is expected to be that booster shots are needed only eight months after the second dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Life for the unvaccinated will start getting a bit tougher to enjoy. People at New York City's restaurants, museums, gyms, pretty much anywhere indoors, had to show proof yesterday of at least partial inoculation. And in Chicago everyone 2 and older, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, must again wear masks when indoors in public starting Friday. In both cities businesses will be held responsible for enforcement. Customs and Border Protection seized thousands of fake vaccine cards in dozens of shipments this fiscal year, including one recently from China to New Orleans. That one was just one of 15 shipments in one night going to several different cities. Officials say they’re so bad, most are very easy to spot. Debate the professional ethics of this amongst yourselves, but a doctor in Mobile, Alabama is refusing to see any more patients who aren’t vaccinated. Dr. Jason Valentine is making the policy effective October 1. He says, “COVID is a miserable way to die and I can’t watch them die like that.”In the United States cases were up 52%, deaths are up 87%, and hospitalizations are up 60% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 6,966,500 active cases in the United States.Keeping in mind several states stopped reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 21,669. Texas 20,161. California 14,940. Georgia 7,639. And New York 3,834. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Neshoba, MS. Clay, KY. Cook, GA. Columbia, FL. Tift, GA. George, MS. Attala, MS. Crockett, TN. Stone, MS. And Berrien, GA.There have been at least 623,283 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.1%, Massachusetts at 64.9%, and Maine unchanged at 64.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 35.6%, Mississippi at 35.8%, and Wyoming unchanged again at 37.3%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 50.8%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Kyrgyzstan up 5%. Trinidad & Tobago, Africa, and Nepal 4%. And Malaysia 3%. Globally, cases were up 6% and deaths were up 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are 17,333,486 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 137,307. Iran 50,228. Brazil 38,218. India 35,201. And France 28,114.  There have now been at least 4,380,611 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 17th, 2021.For the first time since February when things were pre-vaccine, the US reported more than 900,000 cases last week. Cases are on the rise in 46 states. Just yesterday the US reported 382 deaths. Australia’s most populous state, New South Wales, reported its worst day of the pandemic yesterday with 478 new infections and seven deaths. Two of the dead had gotten one dose of a two-shot vaccine. The rest were unvaccinated. Australia has one of the slowest vaccine rollouts among wealthy countries. Meanwhile Japan’s state of emergency has been extended through Sept. 12 as cases continue to surge.  The CDC added four places to their list of the highest-risk destinations for travelers. The newcomers are Dominica, the Island of Jersey, Montenegro, and TurkeyWith half of America rejecting the vaccines, testing for COVID is taking on a renewed sense of importance. And scientists at the National Institutes of Health believe they’ve developed a new, better, cheaper, and faster way to do it. The existing way involves amplifying viral RNA to detectable levels. But the RNA has to be extracted first, which is the time-consuming part. The new way can not only directly test RNA without extraction, it also inactivates the virus, making things safer for lab personnel.The NFL’s Atlanta Falcons may or may not have a conference championship to boast about this year, but they do now have the distinction of being the first team in the league to reach 100% vaccination. The team had the NFL’s first in-season positive COVID test and another COVID shutdown a month after that, but they have clearly turned things around. There is, however, no trophy for this.  In the United States cases were up 64%, deaths are up 113%, and hospitalizations are up 70% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 6,870,886 active cases in the United States.Keeping in mind several states stopped reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 17,216. California 9,542. Texas 7,985. Georgia 6,480. And Louisiana 4,457. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Neshoba, MS. Stone, MS. Columbia, FL. Wayne, MS. Lafourche, LA. Livingston, LA. Newton, MS. Tift, GA. George, MS. And Ascension, LA. There have been at least 622,292 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67%, Massachusetts at 64.7%, and Maine at 64.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 35.4%, Mississippi at 35.8%, and Wyoming unchanged at 37.3%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 50.7%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Trinidad and Tobago up 5%. Kyrgyzstan 4%. And Malaysia, Suriname, and Bangladesh 3%. Globally, cases were up 7% and deaths were up 5% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are 17,228,724 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 103,697. Iran 41,194. The U.K. 28,438. India 24,725. And Thailand 21,157.  There have now been at least 4,370,447 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 16th, 2021. The director of the National Institutes of Health said the U.S. could decide in a couple of weeks to offer booster shots to Americans this fall. First in line to get them would be health care workers, nursing home residents and other older Americans.  It’s been peer reviewed, published in the American Journal of Therapeutics, and is the most comprehensive review of data taken from clinical, in vitro, animal, and real-world studies. The report’s conclusion - ivermectin is an effective prophylaxis and treatment for COVID-19. Statistically significant reduction in mortality, time to recovery and viral clearance in COVID-19 patients. South Africa, Zimbabwe, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Mexico, and India have already approved the drug for use.  Afghanistan has fallen to the Taliban, and while that has many implications, there are also implications related to COVID. They have reportedly already started banning the vaccine in certain regions of the country. Regional hospital employees have been warned to stop distributing it and vaccine wards are being closed.  The number of children hospitalized for COVID-19 reached an all-time high in the US over the weekend according to the Department of Health and Human Services. Kids now make up 2.4% of those hospitalized with COVID. Texas leads the country in that with 311 pediatric hospitalizations. A 70-year-old hermit lives in a small mountain cave in Serbia. He moved there 20 years ago, sleeps on a bed of hay and lives mostly on foraged mushroom and fish from a nearby creek. He emerged from isolation a year ago to discover the pandemic ravaging the world. And even though he’s an isolated hermit, even he wanted the vaccine immediately. He said he didn’t understand the hesitancy, and that the virus isn’t picky, and it could come to his cave. In the United States cases were up 65%, deaths are up 113%, and hospitalizations are up 69% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 6,675,581 active cases in the United States. Keeping in mind several states stopped reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: California 6,524. Texas 4,627. New York 4,597. Arizona 3,052. And Pennsylvania 1,982.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Neshoba, MS. Stone, MS. Columbia, FL. Wayne, MS. Lafourche, LA. Livingston, LA. Newton, MS. Tift, GA. George, MS. And Ascension, LA.  There have been at least 621,605 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 66.8%, Massachusetts at 64.6%, and Maine unchanged at 64.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 35.1%, Mississippi at 35.5%, and Wyoming at 37.3%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 50.4%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Russia up 5%. Suriname 4%. And Malaysia, Trinidad & Tobago, and Argentina 3%.  Globally, cases were up 8% and deaths were up 5% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are once again over 17 million active cases around the world, at 17,160,916. The five countries with the most new cases: Iran 36,736. India 33,221. The United States 30,883. The U.K. 26,750. And Mexico 23,642.  There have now been at least 4,361,399 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 13th, 2021.The Department of Health and Human Services is the latest federal agency requiring employees who provide care or services for patients be vaccinated. That affects more than 25,000 clinicians, researchers, contractors, trainees, and volunteers. The Supreme Court said yes, universities can impose a vaccine mandate on students and faculty. It declined to block a mandate at Indiana University or provide emergency relief requested by some students who said the mandate violates their constitutional right to bodily integrity under the 14th Amendment.A vaccine sentiment survey by Verywell Health shows 27% of vaccinated respondents said they were previously against getting the vaccine. So the important question is, what was able to change their minds? The top reason—chosen by 40%—was the risk of COVID overtaking the risks of getting vaccinated. Other converts just needed some time to warm up to the idea. Vermont, as you hear almost every day in this podcast, has the highest vaccination rate in the country. Yet cases in the state rose 245% in the past two weeks, according to a Fortune analysis of New York Times data. That’s the highest increase in the country over that period. The state is still among those with the lowest cases per capita. And, of course, the messaging on the vaccines has shifted from it will help you keep from getting infected to it will mitigate the severity of your COVID case. We have gone from anyone who thinks the virus leaked from a lab in China is a conspiratorial nutcase to it’s a “likely hypothesis.” And that characterization comes from the head of the World Health Organization’s investigation. Dr. Peter Embarek said their team was forced to conclude a lab leak was "extremely unlikely" in their official report to avoid conflicts with the Communist Chinese government.In the United States cases were up 86%, deaths are up 75%, and hospitalizations are up 82% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 6,469,453 active cases in the United States.Keeping in mind several states stopped reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 24,869. Texas 14,182. California 12,063. Georgia 7,016. And North Carolina 5,900. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Neshoba, MS. Dimmit, TX. Lafourche, LA. East Feliciana, LA. Wayne, MS. Tift, GA. Iberia, LA. Terrebonne, LA. Tangipahoa, LA. And Stone, MS.There have been at least 619,098 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 68%, Massachusetts unchanged at 64.5%, and Maine at 64.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama unchanged at 35%, Mississippi at 35.4%, and Wyoming at 37.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 50.3%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Kyrgyzstan up 9%. Nepal and Vietnam 6%. And Trinidad & Tobago and Taiwan 5%. Globally, cases were up 13% and deaths were up 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are 16,804,693 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 143,537. India 40,078. Iran 39,049. Brazil 35,891. And the U.K. 33,074.  There have now been at least 4,333,370 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 12th, 2021. California will become the first state to require all teachers and school staff to be vaccinated or undergo weekly testing. That applies to public and private schools, and it will also apply to school volunteers. California’s two largest teachers’ unions announced their full support. The FDA is expected to in the next day or so authorize vaccine booster shots for the immunocompromised. That’d be a third shot of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Even after authorization, the CDC would advise on whether to use a vaccine booster. A recent study by Johns Hopkins found vaccinated immunocompromised people are 485x more likely to end up in the hospital or die from COVID compared to the general vaccinated population. Your friends who think the vaccines endanger current and future pregnancies aren’t going to like this. The CDC yesterday urged all pregnant women to get the vaccine. Hospitals in various hot spots are seeing disturbing numbers of unvaccinated mothers-to-be seriously ill with the virus. Expectant women run a higher risk of severe illness and pregnancy complications from the virus, but only about 23% have gotten at least one vaccine dose. Research in several states by the Mayo Clinic appears to show Moderna’s vaccine is considerably more effective against the Delta variant than Pfizer’s. While Moderna’s effectiveness was down to 76%, Pfizer’s was down to 42%. The study also found across multiple states, those inoculated with Pfizer were twice as likely to have a breakthrough infection compared to Moderna. If you do wind up in the hospital, you’ll need people to take care of you. But in some hot spots, there’s now a shortage of nurses. Just one example, one person who suffered a heart attack in Louisiana was bounced around to six hospitals before finding an ER that could take him. Hospitals are losing nurses to staffing agencies, hospitals in other states at double or triple the salary, and burnout to the point some will never return to nursing. In the United States cases were up 86%, deaths are up 102%, and hospitalizations are up 85% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 6,414,400 active cases in the United States. Keeping in mind several states stopped reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 24,753. Texas 16,436. California 12,254. Georgia 6,958. And Louisiana 5,407.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Neshoba, MS. Dimmit, TX. Lafourche, LA. George, MS. Stone, MS. Terrebonne, LA. Iberia, LA. Tangipahoa, LA. Gulf, FL. And Columbia, FL.  There have been at least 618,434 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 68%, Massachusetts at 64.5%, and Maine at 64.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 35%, Mississippi unchanged at 35.2%, and Wyoming at 37.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 50.3%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Kyrgyzstan up 10%. Trinidad and Tobago 5%. And Japan, El Salvador, and Nepal 4%.  Globally, cases were up 15% and deaths were up 16% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 16,699,848 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 143,459. India 43,641. Iran 42,541. Brazil 35,788. And France 30,920.  There have now been at least 4,322,964 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 11th, 2021.New state level data analyzed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Children’s Hospital Association shows cases among children are rising, with kids accounting for roughly 15% of all newly reported cases across the U.S. for the week ending August 5.Comedian Chris Rock may call it the McDonalds of vaccines, but a trial involving almost 480,000 health workers in South Africa shows the Johnson & Johnson vaccine helps prevent severe disease in those infected with the Delta variant. 71% effective against hospitalization and up to 96% effective against death, with a durability of eight months. The CDC announced late last month it’d move away from using the PCR test it designed to look for the virus that causes COVID-19. No, it’s not because they don’t work. They got approval from the FDA in July 2020 for a new one that detects coronavirus and flu and RSV. Also, hundreds of new tests have become available, many of which are more efficient for labs to process so more daily testing is possible.When doctors and nurses go on social media with anti-vaccination messages, it’s especially destructive because a new poll finds most Americans have a great deal of trust in doctors, nurses and pharmacists. 70% trust them to do what’s right for them and their families most or all of the time, and that’s true of both Democrats and Republicans, men and women, and white, Black and Hispanic Americans.The catchphrase has been follow the science. But it could be follow the dogs. Yet another test, this one in France, has shown a golden retriever with just a month of training had a 100% COVID detection rate for nursing home patients who were symptomatic and a 94% success rate even in those who were asymptomatic. Not only that, the dog was able to sniff out the virus 48 hours before it’s detectible by a PCR test.  In the United States cases were up 118%, deaths are up 101%, and hospitalizations are up 87% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 6,291,232 active cases in the United States.Keeping in mind several states stopped reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Texas 16,801. California 12,902. Georgia 6,968. Louisiana 6,088. And Tennessee 3,490. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Neshoba, MS. Dimmit, TX. Lafourche, LA. Iberia, LA. Gulf, FL. Terrebonne, LA. Columbia, FL. Tift, GA. Ascension, LA. And Livingston, LA. There have been at least 618,108 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 68%, Massachusetts unchanged at 64.4%, and Maine unchanged at 64.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 34.9%, Mississippi unchanged at 35.2%, and Wyoming unchanged at 37%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 50.2%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Kyrgyzstan up 9%. Vietnam 6%. Nepal 5%. And Taiwan, Cambodia, and Georgia 4%. Globally, cases were up 19% and deaths were down 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are 16,550,767 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 101,254. Iran 39,139. India 36,316. Brazil 35,245. And Indonesia 32,081.  There have now been at least 4,313,342 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 10th, 2021. As anticipated, members of the U.S. military will be required to get the vaccine starting next month. Memos have been distributed to all troops this is necessary to maintain military readiness. The Defense Secretary said that deadline could be accelerated if the vaccine gets final FDA approval or infection rates keep rising. A couple of good bits of news for Moderna. Its vaccine has been granted a provisional authorization in Australia to adults who are at least 18 years old. And in Switzerland, Moderna has been approved for 12- to 17-year-olds. The CDC added seven destinations to their highest risk category for travel, meaning travel to these places should be avoided. Joining the club are Aruba, Eswatini, France, French Polynesia, Iceland, Israel, and Thailand. The CDC continues to recommend against all international travel unless you are fully vaccinated. Meanwhile Canada lifted its prohibition on Americans crossing the border to shop, vacation or visit. The US is however keeping those restrictions in place for Canadians. Healthcare workers may soon have a big decision to make as nearly 1,500 hospitals, about a fourth of all hospitals in the U.S., require all staffers be vaccinated. More are being added every day. At least seven states have laws against vaccine mandates. Some of those exempt health care facilities, but some prohibit employers, including hospitals, from discrimination based on vaccination status, nor do workers have to tell employers their vaccination status. A few judges in Ohio have either ordered defendants to get a vaccine or reduced sentences if the defendant got a vaccine. In the most recent case last week, a judge ordered a 21-year-old who pleaded guilty to possession of a fentanyl-related compound to get a vaccine within two months as one of several conditions to get two years’ probation. The defendant’s attorney did not challenge the order.  In the United States cases were up 112%, deaths are up 92%, and hospitalizations are up 90% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are 6,223,361 active cases in the United States. Keeping in mind several states stopped reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 28,317. California 9,976. Texas 6,158. Louisiana 5,515. And North Carolina 3,863.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Neshoba, MS. Gulf, FL. Columbia, FL. Chambers, TX. Lafourche, LA. Terrebonne, LA. Iberia, LA. Jackson, FL. And St. James, LA.  There have been at least 617,307 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.9%, Massachusetts at 64.4%, and Maine at 64.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 34.8%, Mississippi at 35.2%, and Wyoming at 37%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 50.1%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Vietnam up 7%. Nepal 6%. Kyrgyzstan 5%. Suriname 4%. And Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia 3%.  Globally, cases were up 17% and deaths were down 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 16,497,595 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 102,375. Iran 40,808. India 27,429. The U.K. 25,161. And Turkey 23,731.  There have now been at least 4,301,576 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 9th, 2021. Hospitalizations are reaching all-time highs, especially in parts of the South. Some patients and their doctors are struggling to find hospitals that will take them, even if it’s out of state. Louisiana set a new record for hospitalizations last week. Florida's hospitalizations recently jumped 13% above the previous peak and 60% of the state’s hospitals expect a "critical staffing shortage" by this week. Houston's United Memorial Medical Center says, "We have no beds. Over the last 12 hours, we’ve lost more patients than in the last 5-6 weeks." Among the problems in Florida, pediatric hospitals have become “completely overwhelmed” with young patients battling COVID. Yesterday, Florida reported having the highest number of children — 172 — hospitalized. Sharp rises in admissions involving kids have also been recorded in other states like Arkansas. The head of the U.S.’ second-largest teachers union made her position clear yesterday; vaccines should be required for educators before they go back to the classroom. Randi Weingarten of the American Federation of Teachers said mandates are necessary because kids can’t get vaccinated and are getting COVID.   Evidence out of Israel indicates even boosters won’t stop breakthrough infections. 14 of its citizens got COVID despite having been inoculated with a third vaccine dose. Two are sick enough to have been hospitalized. Some 420,000 Israelis have been administered a third booster shot so far in a drive that began last week. What happens when there’ve been so many coronavirus variants we run out of Greek letters? Well if we’re still here as a species, the World Health Organization is considering using constellations like Gemini and Aries. So far, we’ve used 11 of the 24 letters of the Greek alphabet so as not to offend or stigmatize countries of discovery. No word yet on if people who claim to be from the constellation Orion will have their feelings hurt. In the United States cases were up 112%, deaths are up 92%, and hospitalizations are up 83% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now once again over 6 million active cases in the United States, at 6,051,160. Keeping in mind several states stopped reporting daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: California 7,105. New York 3,572. Arizona 2,639. Texas 2,141. And Missouri 1,768.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Neshoba, MS. Gulf, FL. Columbia, FL. Chambers, TX. Lafourche, LA. Terrebonne, LA. Iberia, LA. Jackson, FL. And St. James, LA.  There have been at least 616,827 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 67.7%, Massachusetts at 64.2%, and Maine at 64.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama unchanged at 34.6%, Mississippi unchanged at 34.8%, and Wyoming unchanged at 36.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 49.9%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Nepal up 7%. Trinidad and Tobago 6%. Kyrgyzstan 5%. And Zambia and Cambodia 4%.  Globally, cases were up 15% and deaths were down 6% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are once again over 16 million active cases around the world, at 16,392,735. The five countries with the most new cases: Iran 39,619. India 36,035. The U.K. 27,429. Indonesia 26,415. And the United States 24,390.  There have now been at least 4,293,555 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 6th, 2021. The head of the CDC says the number of daily cases in the US has surged more than 40% from the previous week. And across the board, they’re seeing increases in cases and hospitalizations across all age groups. Moderna believes people who got two doses of its vaccine will need a third dose before winter as a booster shot. They’re also working on a single shot that would be an annual booster for COVID-19, as well as flu and the respiratory condition RSV. The company said, "We believe increased force of infection resulting from Delta, non-pharmaceutical intervention fatigue, and seasonal effects (like more time indoors) will lead to an increase of breakthrough infections in vaccinated individuals."  California will require all of its roughly 2.2 million health care workers and long-term care workers to be fully vaccinated by Sept. 30. That’s different than what the Governor said last month when he said workers would have a choice of vaccination or weekly testing. But that choice is the case for Oregon’s health care workers. That order effectively neutralizes an Oregon law that says employers can’t fire health care workers for not being vaccinated. Australia’s second-largest city, Melbourne, has gone into a sixth lockdown. Melbourne joins Sydney and Brisbane in full lockdown due to the Delta variant. The local government said they had no choice because only 20% of Australian adults have been fully vaccinated. You might laugh a little when you hear a cable news channel was operating with its employees on the honor system, but that’s what CNN was doing and now it’s fired three employees who came to work unvaccinated. The head of CNN said that honor system may change in the coming weeks. In the United States cases were up 131%, deaths are up 65%, and hospitalizations are up 87% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 5,864,272 active cases in the United States. Keeping in mind that several states have stopped reporting their daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 20,133. Texas 14,173. California 11,725. Georgia 5,806. And Louisiana 5,468.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Sabine, TX. Dimmit, TX. Lafourche, LA. St. Charles, LA. Stone, MS. Terrebonne, LA. St. Mary, LA. Gulf, FL. Nassau, FL. And Chambers, TX.  There have been at least 615,309 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 67.7%, Massachusetts unchanged at 64.1%, and Maine unchanged at 64%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 34.6%, Mississippi at 34.8%, and Wyoming at 36.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 49.8%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Sri Lanka up 6%. Vietnam, Zambia, and Taiwan 5%. And Japan 4%.  Globally, cases were up 17% and deaths were down 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 15,965,230 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 120,945. India 45,001. Brazil 40,054. Iran 38,674. And Indonesia 35,764.  There have now been at least 4,265,797 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 5th, 2021.Yesterday we had an Axios poll that shows unvaccinated Americans mostly blame foreigners visiting the United States for the surge in the Delta variant. And apparently the White House agrees with them. The administration is taking the first steps toward requiring nearly all foreign visitors to the U.S. to be vaccinated. Travel restrictions curtailing international travel to the U.S. have long been in place, with no apparent effect on the prevalence or spread of the Delta variant. The U.K. plans to offer vaccines to 16 and 17-year-olds in the next few weeks. An independent body of scientists that makes recommendations to the government changed its advice. Healthy 16 to 17-year-olds can be offered a first dose of the Pfizer vaccine without parental consent.A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine says children and adolescents transmit the coronavirus efficiently to household contacts and some of those contacts require hospitalization. The good news, no one in the study younger than 18 required hospitalization, however the study was done last year before the more dangerous Delta variant took hold.The director general of the World Health Organization has a message for countries giving COVID booster shots. Stop it. He’s calling for a moratorium of at least two months on boosters because, "We should not accept countries that have already used most of the global supply of vaccines, using even more of it while the world's most vulnerable people remain unprotected."The U.K.’s “Freedom Day” when restrictions were completely lifted brought screams of irresponsibility and predictions of doom and 100,000 cases daily from pandemic experts and the World Health Organization. Instead, the British are astounding the world with a drop in cases for the fifth day in a row. Why it’s happening is still guesswork, but most speculation has to do with the U.K. being more than 72% fully vaccinated. And if you factor in COVID survivors with antibodies that number could be as high as 92%.  In the United States cases were up 139%, deaths are up 49%, and hospitalizations are up 92% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 5,757,856 active cases in the United States.Keeping in mind that several states have stopped reporting their daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 16,935. Texas 12,334. California 10,909. Georgia 4,860. And Louisiana 4,779. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Sabine, TX. Lafourche, LA. St. James, LA. Iberia, LA. Gulf, FL. St. Charles, LA. Nassau, FL. St. Mary, LA. Dimmit, TX. And Terrebonne, LA.  There have been at least 614,797 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.7%, Massachusetts unchanged at 64.1%, and Maine at 64%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama and Mississippi at 34.5%, and Arkansas unchanged at 36.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 49.7%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Eswatini up 18%. Kyrgyzstan 10%. Sri Lanka 9%. And the Philippines and South Africa 8%. Globally, cases were up 16% and deaths were down 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are 15,730,573 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 112,279. India 42,817. Brazil 40,460. Iran 39,357. And Indonesia 35,867.  There have now been at least... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 4th, 2021.In New York City, you’ll soon have to show proof of vaccination if you want to dine indoors at a restaurant, see a show, or go to the gym. It’s the first big city in the U.S. to put restrictions like that back in place. And they’ll be rolled out over the course of weeks. The Mayor said “What we want to nail is bluntly, showing life is much better when you’re vaccinated. You have more freedom.”The American Academy of Pediatrics said almost 72,000 children and teens caught Covid-19 last week, a "substantial" increase from a week earlier. The definition of a child varies by state but generally includes up to 17 or 18. Children and teens represented 19% of reported cases in the latest weekly data. Kids under 12 are still not eligible for any of the three vaccines currently used in the US.The World Health Organization says that in Africa, coronavirus fatalities surged by 80% within the last four weeks. The WHO Director-General said it’s being driven by the Delta variant, which has spiked infections globally 80% in the past four weeks. At that rate, the group says the 4 million cases reported last week can be expected to pass 200 million in the next two weeks.China suspended flights and trains, canceled pro basketball games, and announced mass testing in Wuhan yesterday as outbreaks persist. Cases are far more widespread than anything China’s dealt with since the initial outbreak. China has among the world’s most authoritarian and compliant lockdown and testing measures, but cases continue to pop up in more than 35 cities in 17 of China’s 33 provinces and regions.So if the unvaccinated don’t blame themselves for the recent surge in cases, who do they blame? An Axios poll found most, 37%, blame people traveling to the U.S. from other countries. 27% blame mainstream media, 23% blame Americans traveling to other countries, and 21% blame Joe Biden. Only 10% of the unvaccinated blame the unvaccinated. Among the vaccinated, they, of course, blame the unvaccinated for the Delta variant surge at 79%, followed by 36% who blame Donald Trump, who left office seven months ago. Almost no one blames the power and nature of the virus itself. In the United States cases were up 142%, deaths are up 27%, and hospitalizations are up 83% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 5,661,932 active cases in the United States.Keeping in mind that several states have stopped reporting their daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 17,001. Texas 14,873. California 10,010. Georgia 9,197. And Louisiana 4,753. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Sabine, TX. Tangipahoa, LA. Ascension, LA. Stone, MS. Lafourche, LA. St. Charles, LA. Livingston, LA. St. James, LA. Gulf, FL. And Terrebonne, LA.  There have been at least 614,249 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.Despite media reports of increased vaccinations, our numbers sourced from NPR are not bearing that out. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 67.6%, Massachusetts at 64.1%, and Maine unchanged at 63.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama unchanged at 34.4%, Mississippi unchanged at 34.5%, and Arkansas at 36.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 49.7%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Nepal up 10%. Vietnam 7%. Sri Lanka 5%. And Taiwan and Malaysia 4%. Globally, cases were up 16% and deaths were up 16% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are 15,472,129 active... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 3rd, 2021. It’s a month late from the US administration’s goal but 70% of U.S. adults have had at least one shot of a vaccine, according to the CDC. Some health officials say it’s a big step toward reaching so-called herd immunity, while others say herd immunity is misleading and the best we can do is reduce the impact of and learn to live with COVID -19. The seven-day average of daily cases in the U.S. has now surpassed the peak seen this time last summer when there were no vaccines at all. Data from the CDC is at odds with Johns Hopkins in terms of if new cases are trending up or down. The seven-day average of daily deaths of 300 per day though is far below last summer’s peak of more than 1,100 daily. In a big change from last month, a Gallup poll shows more Americans now say the pandemic in the U.S. is getting worse rather than better. As recently as June, 89% said things were getting better. Americans now expect societal disruptions to persist at least through the end of the year, or longer, and concern about getting COVID-19 has grown. However, there’s little evidence people are altering their behavior to avoid exposure. Japanese researchers say the Lambda variant is not being taken nearly seriously enough. Their studies show it to be highly infectious and more resistant to vaccines than the original version. They found three mutations in Lambda's spike protein help it resist neutralization by vaccine-induced antibodies. It is not clear if the variant is more dangerous than the Delta variant. More than 385,000. That’s how many attended the 4-day Lollapalooza festival in Chicago this weekend. The head of Chicago’s health department said she expects to see cases associated with the event rise. But Democrat Mayor Lori Lightfoot defended the festival, saying, “We’ve been able to do it because of the vaccinations,” but only about 52% of all Chicagoans are fully vaccinated. In the United States cases were up 149%, deaths are up 14%, and hospitalizations are up 86% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 5,548,581 active cases in the United States. Keeping in mind that several states have stopped reporting their daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: California 8,639. Texas 5,687. Louisiana 3,704. New York 2,427. And South Carolina 2,399.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Sabine, TX. Tangipahoa, LA. Stone, MS. East Feliciana, LA. Ascension, LA. Gulf, FL. Livingston, LA. Lafourche, LA. Nassau, FL. And St. Charles, LA.  There have been at least 613,670 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.6%, Massachusetts at 64%, and Maine at 63.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 34.4%, Mississippi at 34.5%, and Arkansas at 36.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 49.6%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Vietnam up 6%. Nepal and Zambia 4%. And Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Malaysia, and Georgia 3%.  Globally, cases were up 14% and deaths were up 13% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 15,265,233 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 56,369. Iran 37,189. India 30,031. Russia 23,508. And Turkey 22,898.  There have now been at least 4,234,771 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for August 2nd, 2021. There are some signs vaccinations in the US are going up now that the Delta variant surge has become undeniable. 816,203 doses were administered Saturday, the 5th straight day the CDC recorded more than 700,000 shots in arms. Saturday was also the third day in a row the 7-day average of people getting their first shots topped 400,000. Which is not to say there isn’t still resistance around the world. Thousands protested Germany’s anti-coronavirus measures in Berlin yesterday, leading to clashes with police and the detention of some 600 people. In France, thousands protested mandatory coronavirus health passes for entry to public venues for the third weekend in a row. More businesses are also turning to vaccine mandates. Disney and Walmart announced Friday mandates for some of their employees. For Disney it’s all salaried and nonunion hourly employees, for Walmart its all corporate staff members and regional managers. They join companies like Google, Facebook, Uber, and The Washington Post. Not sure how this is going to help get vaccinations up, but Pfizer and Moderna have raised the prices of their vaccines in their latest contracts to the European Union. And not a little bit. It’s a 25% increase for Pfizer and 13% for Moderna. But apparently, these increases still leave the price lower than what was previously agreed upon.  How come what is said in the United States is so frequently at odds with what other countries are finding? Israel's director of public health services said on Face the Nation that Israel, which vaccinated its population early and often, found that about 50% of the people testing positive right now are fully immunized. Not only that, there's evidence the vaccinated are not spreading the virus frequently or widely, which runs counter to what the CDC just said about why the vaccinated should stay masked. In Israel, 80% of vaccinated individuals who’ve been infected have "zero contacts" confirmed to have contracted COVID-19 from the connection. To be clear, this means vaccinated people can and do infect other people, but Israel has found their ability to do so is 50% lower than the unvaccinated. In the United States cases were up 149%, deaths are up 14%, and hospitalizations are up 86% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 5,466,254 active cases in the United States. Keeping in mind that several states have stopped reporting their daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: California 3,707. Texas 3,623. New York 2,657. Arizona 2,306. And Arkansas 1,984.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Sabine, TX. Tangipahoa, LA. Stone, MS. East Feliciana, LA. Ascension, LA. Gulf, FL. Livingston, LA. Lafourche, LA. Nassau, FL. And St. Charles, LA.  There have been at least 613,223 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 67.4%, Massachusetts unchanged at 63.7%, and Maine at 63.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama unchanged at 34.2%, Mississippi unchanged at 34.4%, and Arkansas at 36.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 49.4%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Vietnam and Zambia up 7%. Kosovo 6%. Brunei 5%. And Pakistan 4%.  Globally, cases were up 14% and deaths were up 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are once again over 15 million active cases around the world, at 15,152,168 The five countries with the most new cases: India 40,784.... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 30th, 2021.The EU has passed the U.S. in Covid-19 vaccinations. Inoculations in the 27 member countries are at a sustained pace while America’s effort has stalled. The EU has boosted its figure by 9 percentage points just in the past month.As expected, the US administration announced a number of new steps to increase vaccinations. These include requiring all federal employees and onsite contractors to be vaccinated or face strict protocols, expanding paid leave to get vaccinated, and urging states to give $100 to people who get vaccinated. They also want school districts nationwide to host at least one pop-up vaccination clinic to get more kids 12 and older vaccinated.Israel will be the first to start offering a third shot of the Pfizer vaccine to people over 60. The President will be the first to get the booster today. The health ministry has twice reported a drop in the vaccine's efficacy against infection and a slight decrease in its protection against severe disease. Pfizer says it could apply for U.S. emergency authorization for booster shots as early as August. One of the last holdout countries will start accepting the vaccines into its country. Burundi’s government will allow them but will not take responsibility for any side effects they might cause. This was announced the same day neighboring Tanzania launched its vaccination campaign, retreating from its former President’s denial of the pandemic. This leaves Eritrea, one of the world’s most closed-off nations, as the only African country that has not accepted the vaccines. The smiles at Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland in California will once again be hidden behind masks. The parks have gone back to requiring all guests to wear face masks indoors as of today and vaccination status doesn’t matter. Indoors also means transportation like buses and monorails.In the United States cases were up 146%, deaths are up 11%, and hospitalizations are up 73% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 5,329,011 active cases in the United States.Keeping in mind that several states stopped reporting their daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 17,589. Texas 11,893. California 9,304. Georgia 4,612. And Louisiana 4,414. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Tangipahoa, LA. Stone, MS. Ascension, LA. Uvalde, TX. Livingston, LA. West Baton Rouge, LA. Lafourche, LA. East Feliciana, LA. And St. Mary, LA.There have been at least 612,105 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 67.4%, Massachusetts at 63.7%, and Maine unchanged at 63.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 34.2%, Mississippi at 34.4%, and Arkansas at 36.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 49.3%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Vietnam up 11%. Taiwan 10%. Kosovo and Saudi Arabia 6%. And Zambia 5%. Globally, cases were up 20% and deaths were up 7% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are 14,608,402 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 92,405. India 44,673. Indonesia 43,479. Brazil 41,853. And Iran 34,433.  There have now been at least 4,196,442 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 29th, 2021. After the CDC changed its guidance for even the vaccinated to go back to wearing masks indoors in certain areas, mask rules across the nation reacted in a range of ways. That includes cities, states, schools, and businesses. Nevada and Kansas City swiftly re-imposed indoor masking. But governors in Arizona, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina are resisting. Ford is reinstating masking at facilities in Missouri and Florida, while Apple and Google postponed a return to the office. Google will eventually mandate vaccination for all staff. The main result of the ever-changing advice, Americans plunged right back into emotionally charged debates. The CDC said not only do you have to go back to wearing a mask if you’ve been vaccinated, you also should get tested if you’ve been exposed to the virus even if you’re vaccinated and not showing any symptoms. It’s yet another change in guidance that has many people asking, what good is being vaccinated? The answer, of course, is lower chance of infection and lower seriousness of illness if infected. But the CDC is saying new data suggests "vaccinated people infected by Delta may still carry large amounts of the virus and transmit it to others."  According to Los Angeles County’s Public Health Director, 26% of new cases there are from fully vaccinated people. That’s up from 20% in June. But health officials continue to say that’s totally expected and nothing to get alarmed about. And we say again, the vaccine reduces the severity of cases in those who do get a breakthrough infection.  The Lollapalooza music festival begins today in Chicago’s Grant Park. But those wanting to attend will be required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test within the last three days. The festival is expected to be back at full capacity, with roughly 100,000 daily attendees over four days.  In the United States cases were up 145%, deaths are up 6%, and hospitalizations are up 70% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 5,255,434 active cases in the United States. Keeping in mind that several states have stopped reporting their daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: Florida 16,038. Texas 9,524. California 7,478. Louisiana 4,699. And Georgia 3,828.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Tangipahoa, LA. Ascension, LA. Livingston, LA. Lafourche, LA. East Feliciana, LA. Uvalde, TX. St. Mary, LA. Stone, MS. And West Baton Rouge, LA.  There have been at least 611,779 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.4%, Massachusetts unchanged at 63.6%, and Maine at 63.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama unchanged at 34.1%, Mississippi unchanged again at 34.2%, and Arkansas unchanged again at 36%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is at 49.2%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Zambia up 17%. Taiwan 10%. Vietnam 7%. Saudi Arabia 6%. And Sri Lanka, Lebanon, and the Philippines 4%.  Globally, cases were up 21% and deaths were up 5% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 14,365,832 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 84,534. Brazil 48,443. Indonesia 47,791. India 43,211. And Iran 33,817.  There have now been at least 4,185,754 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 28th, 2021. The CDC has again altered its mask guidance, recommending even fully vaccinated people wear masks indoors in areas with "substantial" and "high" transmission. That pretty much includes two-thirds of all US counties. A source says new unpublished data showing vaccinated people with the Delta variant can have as much virus as the unvaccinated was the main driver for the CDC's change. The White House is strongly considering requiring all federal employees prove they’ve been vaccinated or submit to regular testing and wear a mask, essentially an expansion of the VA mandate announced this week. A final decision may come next week. In 2020, there were more than 4.2 million federal workers nationwide, including those in the military. Israel has authorized the use of Pfizer’s vaccine for vulnerable children between five and 11. Officials said kids should be given the shot if they have a high likelihood of serious illness or death from Covid-19 because of underlying conditions. Each case would require special approval and lower dosages of the vaccine will be given. Tokyo had the highest number of infections yesterday since the pandemic began. Hospitals have been asked to prepare more beds. That’s trouble for the Prime Minister, whose ratings have hit their lowest level since he took office. And it’s trouble for the Olympics as 31% of Japanese citizens still say the Games should be postponed again or cancelled. Cambodian authorities stopped five large containers of frozen water buffalo meat imported from India after determining three containers were tainted with the coronavirus. The contents of the three containers will be destroyed later this week. Cambodia only recently began allowing imports from India again. China’s also recently found the virus in food imports, imposing bans on pork from Britain and Denmark, beef from Argentina, fish from India, and chicken from Russia. In the United States cases were up 144%, deaths are up 7%, and hospitalizations are up 72% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 5,155,138 active cases in the United States. Keeping in mind that several states have stopped reporting their daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: California 8,546. Texas 7,961. Louisiana 6,818. Georgia 3,610. And Missouri 2,414.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Tangipahoa, LA. Grimes, TX. Phillips, AR. Taney, MO. Uvalde, TX. Douglas, MO. St. Mary, LA. Ascension, LA. And Nassau, FL.  There have been at least 611,274 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 67.3%, Massachusetts at 63.6%, and Maine unchanged at 63.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 34.1%, Mississippi unchanged at 34.2%, and Arkansas unchanged at 36%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is again unchanged at 49.1%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: The Philippines up 4%. And Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Oceana, and Australia 3%.  Globally, cases were up 21% and deaths were up 24% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are once again over 14 million active cases around the world, at 14,130,677 The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 61,581. Indonesia 45,203. India 42,928. Brazil 41,411. And Iran 34,951.  There have now been at least 4,175,925 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 27th, 2021. California and New York City announced they will require all government employees to get the vaccine or undergo weekly COVID-19 testing. It’s not clear what happens if employees refuse. The announcements are seen as a possible “opening of the floodgates” as more government entities and companies impose vaccine mandates.  The Department of Veterans Affairs became the first major federal agency to require health care workers to get vaccines. The Department of Justice said there is no federal law standing in the way of employers requiring vaccinations. They have eight weeks to be fully vaccinated. Moderna is in talks with the FDA to expand the size of an ongoing trial testing its vaccines in children between five and 11. A larger database increases the likelihood of detecting rarer events. U.S. regulators actually asked Moderna and Pfizer to expand the trial due to the failure to detect rare side effects like myocarditis and pericarditis. What is going on in the U.K.? The assumption was that after “Freedom Day” and the lifting of restrictions, even in the face of rising Delta variant numbers, cases would skyrocket. But Britain reported its lowest daily total of new cases since July 4 yesterday. New cases fell for a sixth consecutive day and the total number of new cases over the past week is more than a fifth lower than the prior week. However, just over 70% of the adult population in Britain is fully vaccinated compared the U.S.’ less than 50%.  Jonathan Lotz, the grandson of evangelist Billy Graham, is in the hospital in critical condition with COVID-19. He is a cancer survivor which could affect the severity of his case. The family has not answered media requests for information on whether or not he was vaccinated, but his famous uncle Franklin Graham has repeatedly publicly urged everyone to get vaccinated.   In the United States cases were up 144%, deaths are up 7%, and hospitalizations are up 68% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 5,111,762 active cases in the United States. Keeping in mind that several states have stopped reporting their daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: California 5,872. Texas 3,079. Louisiana 2,532. Georgia 1,614. And New York 1,568.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Tangipahoa, LA. Grimes, TX. Phillips, AR. Taney, MO. Uvalde, TX. Douglas, MO. St. Mary, LA. Ascension, LA. And Nassau, FL.  There have been at least 610,951 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.3%, Massachusetts at 63.5%, and Maine at 63.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 34%, Mississippi at 34.2%, and Arkansas at 36%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 49.1%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Bhutan up 8%. Saudi Arabia 6%. Vietnam 5%. Jordan 4%. And Turkey, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia 3%.  Globally, cases were up 17% and deaths were up 19% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 13,980,120 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 35,816. Iran 31,814. India 30,125. Indonesia 28,228. And the U.K. 24,950.  There have now been at least 4,166,967 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 26th, 2021. German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s chief of staff warned that restrictions for unvaccinated people may be necessary if infection numbers reach new heights in the coming months. That has politicians there very divided. The unvaccinated may be banned from restaurants, movie theaters and sports stadiums. Apparently believing lack of access to them is the problem, the White House is considering sending masks to every American household, according to three people familiar with the talks. It’s not certain what kind, or how many will be sent per residence. Dr. Anthony Fauci said the administration is even weighing whether people should double-mask.  France's parliament approved a law requiring special virus passes for all restaurants and domestic travel and mandating vaccinations for all health workers. Health workers who refuse risk suspension. To get the pass, people must prove they’re fully vaccinated, recently tested negative, or recently recovered from the virus.  Vietnam has locked down Hanoi for at least 15 days. This bans the gathering of more than two people in public, and only government offices, hospitals and essential businesses are allowed to stay open. The city had already suspended all outdoor activities and ordered non-essential businesses to close.  Usually during the Olympics we’re counting medals. This year we’re counting coronavirus cases. Olympics organizers say 127 people connected to the games have tested positive in the past few weeks. 71 of them are residents of Japan and 56 are non-residents like athletes and the media. 14 athletes have tested positive so far. About 100 of the total 613 U.S. athletes have not yet been vaccinated. In the United States cases were up 170%, deaths are up 20%, and hospitalizations are up 58% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 5,060,794 active cases in the United States. Keeping in mind that several states have now decided to stop reporting their daily case numbers, the five states with the most new cases: California 3,010. New York 1,902. Missouri 1,620. Arizona 1,508. And Texas 1,428.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Baxter, AR. Phillips, AR. Douglas, MO. Perry, AR. Nassau, FL. Taney, MO. Marion, AR. Karnes, TX. And Wright, MO. There have been at least 610,891 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 67.1%, Massachusetts unchanged at 63.3%, and Maine at 63%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama unchanged at 33.9%, Mississippi at 34%, and Arkansas at 35.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 48.8%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Vietnam up 6%. Saudi Arabia 5%. Nepal 4%. And Kazakhstan, Australia, and Malaysia 3%.  Globally, cases were up 19% and deaths were up 21% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 13,882,962 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Indonesia 38,679. India 38,153. The U.K. 29,173. Iran 27,146. And Russia 24,072.  There have now been at least 4,158,469 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 23rd, 2021.Instead of stories today we’ll be answering some questions many people might be having about breakthrough cases. Cases of COVID in those who have been fully vaccinated. Do the vaccines work against Delta? So far, research shows they’re holding up well against it. A June study from the U.K. found the Pfizer vaccine is 96% effective against hospitalization from the delta variant after two doses. If the vaccine isn’t guaranteed to keep you from getting infected, why get it? Your chances of getting infected are dramatically reduced, and if you do get infected (which is possible), the vaccine should help you keep from getting as sick. How many people who are hospitalized are unvaccinated as opposed to vaccinated? 97% according to the CDC. What would make you more likely to have a breakthrough case that leads to serious illness? If you have health conditions that affect the immune system. Exactly how many breakthrough cases have there been? There's no exact number. They can’t count asymptomatic breakthrough cases because those people don’t get regular testing. If they have no symptoms, they don’t know to get tested. The CDC measures the effectiveness of COVID vaccines the way they do flu shots. Most people who get the flu are never tested or reported. Long-term surveillance, along with calculations to extrapolate the findings, gives a picture of how much virus is out in the community. Why are breakthrough cases going up? Because more people got vaccinated. Math says that even with a 95% efficacy rate, one in 20 vaccinees who are exposed will get the disease. With Delta spreading 2-3 times faster than the original strain — there’ll be more cases among everyone, vaccinated and unvaccinated. Is Delta causing more breakthrough cases? There's no data yet to show that it is. It’s also not known if you can spread the coronavirus if you get a breakthrough infection. In theory, the vaccinated have less virus so they’re less likely to transmit. But it’s not impossible.In the United States cases were up 180%, deaths are up 30%, and hospitalizations are up 53% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 5,109,249 active cases in the United States.The five states with the most new cases: Florida 12,647. California 6,937. Texas 6,340. Missouri 3,346. And Louisiana 2,834. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Cole, MO. Karnes, TX. Miller, MO. Marion, AR. Douglas, MO. Baxter, AR. Taney, MO. Oregon, MO. And Wright, MO. There have been 610,132 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67.1%, Massachusetts at 63.3%, and Maine unchanged at 62.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama and Mississippi at 33.9%, and Arkansas at 35.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 48.8%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Taiwan up 14%. Saudi Arabia 7%. Argentina and Ukraine 4%. And Malaysia and Australia 3%. Globally, cases were up 20% and deaths were up 18% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are 13,507,906 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 61,651. Brazil 49,603. Indonesia 49,509. The U.K. 39,906. And India 34,865.  There have now been 4,134,432 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 22nd, 2021. Cases nearly tripled in the U.S. over the past two weeks. Hospitals are again canceling elective surgeries and procedures. Just 56.2% of Americans have gotten even one dose of the vaccine.  New Orleans has become one of many cities that have gone back to “strongly recommending” mask-wearing indoors. They’re hoping to avoid total shutdowns that devastate tourism economies. Hospitalizations in New Orleans for COVID are up more than 600 since June 19. Tunisia isn’t playing games. That country’s president has ordered the military to take over management of the national pandemic response. They’re fighting one of Africa’s worst outbreaks. The last health minister was fired over his surprise decision to open vaccination centers to all adults for the first time this week during the Muslim holiday, causing confusion and chaos. Reports of breakthrough cases, cases of COVID in people who have been fully vaccinated, are increasing. It’s a small number compared to overall cases, but it’s enough that it’s creating communication problems for the White House. This was not helped when it was leaked, then later confirmed, that a vaccinated White House aide recently tested positive. The White House press secretary also acknowledge this isn’t the first breakthrough case at the White House, though she would not say how many there’ve been. The case comes days after the administration settled on a new message about COVID that it’s now a pandemic of the unvaccinated.  It was quite a weekend’s work. An Australian socialite, Anthony Hess, unknowingly spread the Delta variant to at least 60 people in Los Angeles in just one weekend. He was fully vaccinated. He said, “I have no idea how many people I infected, it could be hundreds.” Hess said it appears the Delta variant is overpowering vaccines since most of the people he infected were also fully vaccinated.  In the United States cases were up 171%, deaths are up 42%, and hospitalizations are up 49% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 5,062,265 active cases in the United States. The five states with the most new cases: Florida 8,988. California 6,521. Louisiana 5,388. Texas 4,769. And Missouri 2,995.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Karnes, TX. Cole, MO. Taney, MO. Marion, AR. Ottawa, OK. Miller, MO. St. Mary, LA. Webster, MO. Greene, MO. And Tangipahoa, LA.  There have now been at least 609,859 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 67%, Massachusetts unchanged at 63.2%, and Maine at 62.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama unchanged at 33.7%, Mississippi at 33.9%, and Arkansas unchanged at 35.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 48.7%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Taiwan up 10%. South Africa 6%. Saudi Arabia 5%. Russia 4%. And Kazakhstan 3%.  Globally, cases were up 24% and deaths were up 24% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 13,339,599 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 56,525. Brazil 54,748. The U.K. 44,104. India 41,697. And Indonesia 33,772.  There have now been at least 4,126,289 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 21st, 2021. The CDC Director said the Delta variant is now estimated to make up 83% of all sequenced Covid-19 cases in the U.S. That’s a dramatic rise from 50% the week of July 3. Dr. Rochelle Walensky told a Senate hearing nearly two-thirds of the counties in the U.S. have vaccinated less than 40% of residents. Fatalities have risen nearly 48% over the past week. In the UK, seven areas have been identified as hotspots, meaning more than one in 100 people have the virus. More areas are fully expected to be added to the list in the coming days. COVID deaths in the UK spiked 61% from the previous week.  As bad as COVID deaths have been in India throughout the pandemic, a new study shows just how undercounted deaths probably were there. The report from researchers at the Center for Global Development said it could be 10 times the official count, with deaths in the several millions not hundreds of thousands. Struggling as it is with the Delta variant, the Houston Methodist hospital system in Texas reported its first case of the Lambda variant. That’s the variant first detected in Peru that makes up 81% of cases there since April 2021. The system’s medical director of Diagnostic Microbiology says Lambda is not yet a bigger concern than Delta since we know Delta’s much more contagious, and with higher viral loads. What a mess. The chief of the Tokyo 2020 organizing committee has not ruled out cancelling the Olympics at the last-minute. More athletes are testing positive and big sponsors have pulled out of Friday's opening ceremony. Overall, Tokyo is experiencing a new surge, with 1,387 cases recorded Tuesday. In the United States cases were up 195%, deaths are up 42%, and hospitalizations are up 46% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now once again over 5 million active cases in the United States, at 5,021,185. The five states with the most new cases: Florida 8,012. California 5,269. Texas 4,732. Missouri 1,992. And Arkansas 1,875.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Karnes, TX. Taney, MO. Arkansas, AR. Marion, AR. Cole, MO. Baxter, AR. Greene, MO. Dallas, MO. Christian, MO. And Izard, AR.  There have been 609,521 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 67%, Massachusetts at 63.2%, and Maine unchanged at 62.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama unchanged at 33.7%, Mississippi unchanged at 33.8%, and Arkansas unchanged at 35.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is unchanged at 48.6%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Taiwan up 7%. Saudi Arabia and Trinidad & Tobago 5%. And Isle of Man, Malaysia, and Lebanon 3%.  Globally, cases were up 26% and deaths were flat over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 13,169,385 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The U.K. 46,558. The Unites States 44,232. India 42,123. Indonesia 38,325. And Brazil 27,896.  There have now been 4,105,026 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 20th, 2021. A federal judge has ruled Indiana University can require its roughly 90,000 students and 40,000 employees to get vaccinated. The judge rejected a request to block the requirement from eight students who are suing that the policy violated their constitutional rights by forcing them to receive unwanted medical treatment. With restrictions ending, cases up 41%, the UK Health Secretary testing positive for COVID, and the US issuing a “do not travel” advisory to the UK, the British government says it won’t be inoculating most children and teens until more safety data is available. An advisory panel said the benefits of universal vaccination do not outweigh the risks for most young people. This runs counter to the policy of several other European countries, which are vaccinating adolescents as young as 12. The American Academy of Pediatrics issued recommendations for the upcoming school year that says everyone 2 and older should wear masks and it doesn’t matter if they’re vaccinated or not. But the group does "strongly recommend" in-person learning.  Alabama typically leads our list of least vaccinated states, and its Department of Public Health reported 718 new cases Monday after 1,625 new cases over the weekend. The 7-day moving average is now 6.74 times higher over just two weeks’ time. Hospitalizations are also rising sharply, and COVID deaths have roughly doubled in two weeks,  Canadian officials say as long as the situation there stays favorable, travel restrictions at the U.S. border will be loosened August 9. That means fully vaccinated American citizens and permanent residents residing in the U.S. can get into Canada with no quarantine even for non-essential purposes.  In the United States cases were up 140%, deaths are up 33%, and hospitalizations are up 34% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 4,987,415 active cases in the United States.  The five states with the most new cases: California 4,350. Texas 1,996. Louisiana 1,329. Arizona 1,034. And Missouri 1,020.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Karnes, TX. Taney, MO. Cole, MO. Marion, AR. Baxter, AR. Christian, MO. Dallas, MO. Wright, MO. And Miller, MO. There have been 609,233 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 66.9%, Massachusetts at 63.1%, and Maine unchanged at 62.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 33.7%, Mississippi unchanged at 33.8%, and Arkansas at 35.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 48.6%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Saudi Arabia up 10%. Trinidad and Tobago 5%. Jordan and Zambia 3%. And Macao 2%.  Globally, cases were up 34% and deaths up 7% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are once again over 13 million active cases around the world, at 13,031,275. The five countries with the most new cases: The U.K. 39,950. Indonesia 34,257. India 29,424. Iran 25,441. And Russia 24,633.  There have now been 4,095,437 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 19th, 2021. The U.S. surgeon general is attempting to sound the alarm about what’s ahead. Cases are increasing in every state, millions of Americans are still unvaccinated, and the highly contagious Delta variant is spreading rapidly. He said nearly all coronavirus deaths now are among the unvaccinated. It doesn’t appear scare tactics are going to work. A CBS News poll shows unvaccinated and partially vaccinated Americans are actually the least concerned about the Delta variant. Among the unvaccinated polled, 53% are worried about possible side effects, 50% cited no trust in the government, and 45% said they don't trust the science. The Sheriff of Los Angeles County said he’s not going to enforce the reinstated indoor mask mandate because it contradicts CDC guidelines. He said his department is already underfunded and he won’t expend the limited resources. But he did ask for voluntary compliance. It’s always bad when you hear about deaths from COVID-19, but Indonesia is reporting a sharp rise in the death of doctors from the virus. 114 doctors died from July 1-17, which makes up more than 20% of the 545 total doctors who died since the beginning of the pandemic. Indonesia has a 95% vaccination rate among health workers.  Here’s one more poll, this one from YouGov and The Economist, which tells us that fully 1/5 of Americans believe microchips may have been planted inside COVID-19 vaccines. 15% say it’s "probably true" while 5% say it’s "definitely true." Among 30-44-year-olds, the number of believers goes up to 27%.  In the United States cases were up 140%, deaths are up 33%, and hospitalizations are up 34% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 4,962,571 active cases in the United States.  The five states with the most new cases: California 2,168. Missouri 1,394. Texas 1,303. New York 1,019. And Arizona 980.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Karnes, TX. Taney, MO. Cole, MO. Marion, AR. Baxter, AR. Christian, MO. Dallas, MO. Wright, MO. And Miller, MO. There have been 609,018 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 66.8%, Massachusetts at 63%, and Maine at 62.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 33.6%, Mississippi at 33.8%, and Arkansas at 35.3%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 48.5%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Saudi Arabia up 9%. Zambia 6%. Trinidad and Tobago 4%. And Australia and Malaysia 3%.  Globally, cases were up 31% and deaths up 5% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 12,945,383 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The U.K. 48,161. Indonesia 44,721. India 38,325. Brazil 34,126. And Russia 25,018.  There have now been 4,088,092 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 16th, 2021.The masks are back. Los Angeles County will again require masks be worn indoors even by those who have been vaccinated. California fully reopened its economy June 15 and did away with capacity limits and social distancing. Africa recorded a 43% jump in COVID-19 deaths last week. Infections and hospitalizations have risen, and, in some places, there are shortages of oxygen and ICU beds. The continent's case fatality rate stands at 2.6% against the global average of 2.2%.The head of the World Health Organization admitted it was premature for them to rule out a lab in China as the origin of the coronavirus. China’s being asked to be more transparent in the search for the virus’ origins but has instead struck back aggressively, suggesting the search should continue, but in other countries.You hear in the American media it’s almost exclusively the unvaccinated who are dying of COVID. So why has Public Health England reported that most COVID deaths there are currently among the vaccinated? They not only say it, they say that’s to be expected. The risk of dying from COVID doubles every seven years older a patient is. This variation means vaccines don’t reduce the risk of death for older people so much that it falls below the risk for younger demographics. The problem with that explanation of course is infections are highest in younger age groups right now.Maybe your Nikes are about to get more valuable on the resale market. A South Korean shoemaker became the second major Nike supplier to suspend production in Vietnam. It shut down three of its factories near Ho Chi Minh City due to an outbreak. The factories employ almost 42,000 workers and will stay closed until July 20. Factories in Vietnam produced about half of all Nike brand footwear in fiscal 2020.In the United States cases were up 111%, deaths are up 5%, and hospitalizations are up 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 4,921,028 active cases in the United States. The five states with the most new cases: Florida 7,011. Texas 3,611. California 3,439. Missouri 2,882. And Louisiana 1,500. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Baxter, AR. Taney, MO. Karnes, TX. Dallas, MO. Wright, MO. Douglas, MO. Perry, AR. Marion, AR. And Greene, MO. There have been 608,387 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 66.6%, Massachusetts at 62.8%, and Maine unchanged at 62.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama unchanged at 33.4%, Mississippi at 33.6%, and Arkansas at 35.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 48.2%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Taiwan up 11%. Saudi Arabia 10%. And Lebanon, Malaysia, and Zambia 4%. Globally, cases were up 26% and deaths up 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are 12,496,431 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Indonesia 56,757. Brazil 52,789. The U.K. 48,553. India 39,072. And the United States 36,674.  There have now been 4,065,528 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 15th, 2021. It’s a bad combination in the U.S.; young and unvaccinated. They’re the ones showing up at hospitals across the country, some even landing in ICU and on ventilators. The CDC says slightly fewer than half of 18 to 24 and 25 to 39-year-olds are fully vaccinated. Former FDA commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb says the delta variant will keep causing problems maybe into October and will get worse before it gets better. COVID-19 is sparking protests in several countries. In addition to uprisings in Cuba, tear gas was used on protesters in Paris who railed against plans to require a vaccine certificate or negative PCR test to get into bars, restaurants, and cinemas. And in Greece, thousands gathered in the two largest cities protesting plans to make vaccines available to children as young as 15 without parental consent. The U.S. government reported overdose deaths soared to a record 93,000 last year amidst the pandemic. It’s a 29% increase over 2020. Experts say lockdowns and restrictions isolated those with drug addictions and made treatment harder to get. Fentanyl was involved in more than 60% of overdose deaths last year. Speaking of lockdowns, Spain's Constitutional Court ruled yesterday that mandating strict home confinement last year was unconstitutional. The government used a state of emergency to temporarily limit civil liberties, but the ruling annulled some articles of the decree related to free movement of citizens. That opens the door to cancelling fines for those who violated restrictions. A homoeopathic doctor in California became the first to face federal charges over fake COVID-19 immunizations and falsified vaccine cards. Juli Mazi of Napa allegedly sold immunization pellets she said contained the COVID-19 virus and would create lifelong immunity. She also allegedly sent vaccination cards that falsely stated the Moderna vaccine was administered after the pellets were taken. In the United States cases were up 111%, deaths are up 5%, and hospitalizations are up 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 4,899,930 active cases in the United States.  The five states with the most new cases: Florida 6,425. California 3,886. Texas 2,610. Missouri 2,240. And Louisiana 1,936.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Baxter, AR. Taney, MO. Karnes, TX. Dallas, MO. Wright, MO. Douglas, MO. Perry, AR. Marion, AR. And Greene, MO.  There have been 607,754 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 66.5%, Massachusetts at 62.7%, and Maine at 62.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 33.4%, Mississippi at 33.5%, and Arkansas at 35%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 48.1%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Lebanon, Taiwan, and Zambia up 9%. Saudi Arabia 7%. And Cape Verde 5%.  Globally, cases were up 19% and deaths down 6% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 12,288,532 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 57,664. Indonesia 54,517. The U.K. 42,302. India 41,854. And the United States 35,447.  There have now been 4,047,669 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 14th, 2021. COVID-19 is rising again in the U.S. after months of decline. In fact, the number of new cases per day doubled over the past three weeks. That’s attributed to the delta variant, lagging vaccination rates, and Fourth of July gatherings. Only Maine and South Dakota did not have case numbers go up over the past two weeks. Yesterday we told you the Dutch Prime Minister apologized for an error in judgement in easing restrictions. Today we report infections in the Netherlands jumped by more than 500% over the last week. Of infections that could be traced to their source, 37% happened in a hospitality venue like a bar or club with the biggest surge in 18-24-year-olds.  In one of the fastest reversals of the pandemic, California health officials issued a statewide policy Monday that’d have barred students from school campuses if they refused to wear masks. Just hours later, they backtracked. Now they will "recognize local schools’ experience in keeping students and educators safe." A new poll from the Kaiser Family Foundations asked people who were initially reluctant to get a vaccine what changed their mind. About half said it was something they learned, 36% said they were persuaded by somebody, a fourth of them changed when they saw others getting vaccinated without ill effects. 11% were reassured by their doctor. 8% were pressured by family and friends. And 3% did it so they could visit loved ones. Another poll, this one of New Yorkers, shows 68% of them think the worst is over. Only 17% think the worst is yet to come. 84% are at least somewhat comfortable having friends over, 80% are okay going to a beach or lakefront, 78% are ready to go on vacation, and 77% feel safe eating indoors at a restaurant. In the United States cases were up 94%, deaths are down 12%, and hospitalizations are up 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 4,879,927 active cases in the United States.  The five states with the most new cases: Florida 5,095. Texas 3,567. California 3,543. Missouri 2,276. And Arkansas 1,476.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Franklin, LA. Karnes, TX. Reeves, TX. Dimmit, TX. Baxter, AR. Perry, AR. Cherokee, KS. Greene, MO. Taney, MO. And Marion, AR.  There have been 607,754 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 66.4%, Massachusetts at 62.6%, and Maine at 62.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 33.3%, Mississippi at 33.4%, and Arkansas at 34.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 48%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Saudi Arabia up 7%. Zambia 5%. And Malaysia, Africa, and Nepal 4%.   Globally, cases were up 17% and deaths down 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are 12,108,039 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Indonesia 47,899. Brazil 45,094. Spain 43,960. India 40,215. And the U.K. 36,660.  There have now been 4,047,669 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 13th, 2021. The World Health Organization’s director-general rebuked vaccine manufacturers focused on getting booster shots to high-income countries. He says they should instead be focusing on providing vaccine to nations that have had little access to first doses. The Dutch Prime Minister has apologized for what he called “an error of judgment” in relaxing the Netherlands' coronavirus lockdown. It’s a move believed to have led to a sharp surge in infections. Most remaining restrictions ended just over three weeks ago. France’s President ordered all French health care workers to get vaccine shots by Sept. 15 and urged all citizens to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Resurgent infections are threatening the country’s economic recovery. He also mandated special passes for anyone who wants to go to a restaurant, mall or hospital or get on a train or plane proving vaccination. U.S. health officials say Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine may pose a “small possible risk” of a rare but potentially dangerous neurological reaction. The CDC has gotten reports of 100 people out of 13 million people who got the shot developing Guillain-Barré syndrome, an immune system disorder that can cause muscle weakness and occasionally paralysis. Springfield, Missouri’s Mercy hospital has had to open its sixth COVID-19 ward as the delta virus overwhelms the state’s southwest region. St. Louis County and Kansas City health officials are warning there are still more sharp case increases to come. The hospital needed only five wards during the height of the pandemic last year. In the United States cases were up 94%, deaths are down 12%, and hospitalizations are up 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 4,869,026 active cases in the United States. The five states with the most new cases: California 2,853. Texas 1,229. Mississippi 796. New York 723. And Washington 720. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Franklin, LA. Karnes, TX. Reeves, TX. Dimmit, TX. Baxter, AR. Perry, AR. Cherokee, KS. Greene, MO. Taney, MO. And Marion, AR. There have been 607,390 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 66.4%, Massachusetts at 62.6%, and Maine at 62.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 33.3%, Mississippi at 33.4%, and Arkansas at 34.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 48%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Saudi Arabia and Pakistan up 5%. Colombia 4%. And Sri Lanka and Malaysia 3%.   Globally, cases were up 12% and deaths down 9% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. The number of active cases around the world is back up over 12 million, at 12,007,844. The five countries with the most new cases: Indonesia 40,427. The U.K. 34,471. India 30,827. Russia 25,140. And Iran 20,829. There have now been 4,036,857 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 12th, 2021. Los Angeles County’s spike in Covid cases continued Saturday, with a second-consecutive 1,000-plus tally of daily infections. Friday doubled the number reported a week before and was the county’s highest daily figure since March. The number’s especially alarming because tallies are usually lower on weekends since there are fewer tests and lags in reporting. Thousands of Cubans took to the streets yesterday in protests. That’s a rare thing in Cuba. They were expressing frustration over pandemic restrictions, the pace of vaccinations and government neglect. The Cuban President, also head of the Communist Party, blamed the United States for the unrest. The CDC says fully vaccinated students do not need to wear masks in classrooms this fall. The guidance is aimed at helping keep kids in classrooms and participating in sports and extracurricular activities. The CDC encourages a return to the classroom even if not all prevention measures can be taken. For unvaccinated students, masks, hand-washing and weekly Covid-19 testing are recommended. As England nervously moved toward “Freedom Day,” the vaccines minister says even after that day July 19, masks will still be “expected” in crowded places like public transport. This represents a toughening up of rhetoric. It’s also advised people not rush back to offices if possible. The health secretary predicts daily infection levels could top 100,000, a record for the pandemic. Even more problem for the Olympics in Tokyo. Organizers were going to allow the sale of alcohol at venues. But the public said wait a minute, citizens are still under alcohol restrictions. Why is it safe for Olympic spectators to drink? Plus, there are concerns alcohol will make spectators yell more and ignore social distancing. So, sale of alcohol at Olympic venues has been banned. In the United States cases were up 60%, deaths are down 27%, and hospitalizations are up 11% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 4,865,805 active cases in the United States. The five states with the most new cases: California 1,636. Missouri 1,089. New York 852. Arizona 803. And Texas 422. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Franklin, LA. Karnes, TX. Reeves, TX. Dimmit, TX. Taney, MO. Baxter, AR. Joplin, MO. Polk, MO. Perry, AR. And Dallas, MO. There have been 607,155 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 66.2%, Massachusetts at 62.3%, and Maine at 62.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 33.1%, Mississippi at 33.3%, and Arkansas at 34.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 47.7%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Sri Lanka up 5%. Malaysia, Zambia, and Kazakhstan 3%. And Russia, Argentina, and Aruba 2%.   Globally, cases were up 11% and deaths down 10% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21. There are now 11,999,467 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 37,676. Indonesia 36,197. The U.K. 31,772. Russia 25,033. And Brazil 20,937. There have now been 4,029,593 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 9th, 2021. Scientists believe they’re starting to understand the delta variant more. They seem to mostly agree it is the most contagious version, spreading about 225% faster than the original. And a new study says delta grows faster inside our respiratory tracts and to much higher levels. On average, people infected with the delta variant had about 1,000x more copies of the virus in their respiratory tracts than those infected with the original strain. Also, when someone catches the delta variant, they become infectious sooner, taking about four days to reach detectable levels compared to six days for the original. Pfizer is about to seek U.S. authorization for a third dose of its vaccine, saying another shot within 12 months could dramatically boost immunity and maybe help ward off the delta variant. This is the kind of thing that makes it very hard to track accurate coronavirus data. Connecticut health officials say they will no longer provide daily updates on the number of people who have died in that state from COVID-19-related causes. Those reports will now only come once a week. Los Angeles County’s public health director tells NPR vaccination rates are lower in the black community and as a result, that community is experiencing a rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. This in a time period when cases and hospitalizations went down for Latino, white and Asian residents. Don’t bother heading to Japan for the Olympics. As anticipated, spectators will not be allowed in the host city of Tokyo. Japan has declared a state of emergency in the capital that will run throughout the Games, which run until Aug. 8. The Games had been postponed last year due to the pandemic. In the United States cases were up 39%, deaths are down 38%, and hospitalizations are up 1% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 4,851,375 active cases in the United States.  The five states with the most new cases: Texas 2,136. California 1,821. Missouri 1,678. Arkansas 1,210. And Georgia 932.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Franklin, LA. Dimmit, TX. Reeves, TX. Joplin, MO. Karnes, TX. Baxter, AR. Polk, MO. Taney, MO. Cherokee, KS. And Marion, AR.  There have been 606,468 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont unchanged at 66.1%, Massachusetts unchanged at 62.2%, and Maine at 62.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama unchanged at 33%, Mississippi at 33.2%, and Arkansas unchanged at 34.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 47.6%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Taiwan up 6%. South Africa 5%. And Malaysia, Lebanon, and Thailand 3%.   Globally, cases were up 11% and deaths down 9% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are now 11,836,897 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 53,749. Indonesia 38,391. India 34,443. The U.K. 32,551. And Russia 24,818.  There have now been 4,009,084 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 8th, 2021. The World Health Organization is getting nervous COVID-19 restrictions are being lifted way too soon considering the rate at which the delta variant is spreading. Its head of emergencies urged countries "not to lose the gains you've made". England, in particular, is coming under heated questioning and criticism for lifting restrictions July 19.  And here’s the reason that criticism is happening. A new study shows COVID-19 infections in England have quadrupled in one month since early June. The Prime Minister said he was reconciled to more deaths from COVID-19, but that life needed to return to normal.  In the U.S., the government is deploying a Covid-19 surge team to lend support in southwest Missouri, where the virus is filling up hospital beds again. The surge is so high in the city of Springfield, a hospital system started sending some patients to other facilities. The state came in second to Arkansas in the past week for the most new cases per capita. Some are wondering why we went from Operation Warp Speed to Operation Status Quo. Even with massive numbers of people getting vaccines and peer reviewed studies on safety published, the FDA has yet to give the vaccines full approval. It’s believed doing so might give a much-needed boost to vaccine acceptance and lead to more employers, schools, and the military requiring vaccination. The FDA has not indicated when approval might happen. For some beauty pageant contestants, perhaps their talent was avoiding viral infection. Nearly half the contestants at this year's Miss Mexico pageant tested positive for the coronavirus. Organizers went ahead with the show even though some had symptoms, but finally ended it Saturday when all the tests came back.  In the United States cases were up 35%, deaths are down 40%, and hospitalizations are flat over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since July 5.  There are now 4,853,716 active cases in the United States.  The five states with the most new cases: California 2,252. Missouri 1,663. Texas 1,625. Arkansas 1,000. And Georgia 690.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Franklin, LA. Dimmit, TX. Reeves, TX. Joplin, MO. Karnes, TX. Taney, MO. Cherokee, KS. Moffat, CO. Polk, MO. And Newton, MO.  There have been 606,215 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 66.1%, Massachusetts at 62.2%, and Maine unchanged at 61.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi unchanged at 29.9%, Alabama at 33%, and Arkansas at 34.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 47.5%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Ukraine up 7%. Taiwan and Malaysia 5%. And Japan, Vietnam, and Saudi Arabia 4%.  Globally, cases were up 8% and deaths down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 21.  There are now 11,735,689 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 54,022. India 45,674. Indonesia 34,379. The U.K. 32,548. And Colombia 24,229. There have now been over four million deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide, at 4,000,641.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 7th, 2021. The CDC says the delta variant is now the dominant strain in the U.S., accounting for more than 51% of COVID-19 cases. In parts of the U.S., Midwestern states like Missouri, Kansas, and Iowa, delta accounts for more than 80% of new infections. New data from Israel shows the Pfizer vaccine appears less effective at preventing COVID-19 cases from the delta variant but it’s still highly effective at preventing hospitalizations. From June 6 to July 2, the vaccine showed 64% efficacy at preventing cases and 94% efficacy at preventing hospitalizations. Things do seem to be going backwards around the world. Sydney, Australia extended its hard lockdown, saying the delta strain is a game-changer. Mexico had the biggest jump in new daily infections since late February. Greece is planning to reimpose curbs on entertainment. South Korea reports a case level unseen since the worst of its outbreak in December. Fiji has record infections and a mortuary at the main hospital filled to capacity. And in parts of Indonesia, they’ve run out of oxygen, causing the deaths of dozens of critically ill COVID-19 patients. So what do we know for sure about the new Lambda variant? It was first identified in Peru and is now in 29 countries. Scientists don’t know if it’s more transmissible. There's not a lot of data yet on how effective the vaccines are. Early findings suggest it is more infectious and can better escape the antibodies elicited by the Chinese CoronaVac vaccine, but that seems to be the only vaccine tested. The CDC has yet to identify Lambda as a variant of interest.  The Pentagon is thinking about making vaccinations mandatory for troops once the FDA fully approves the shots. It wouldn’t be anything new. They’re already mandated to get 17 different vaccines, including shots against measles, mumps, diphtheria, hepatitis, smallpox and the flu. But some have already said they will leave the service if forced to take the COVID-19 vaccine.  In the United States cases were up 5%, deaths are down 38%, and hospitalizations are down 3% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 13.  There are now 4,855,844 active cases in the United States.  The five states with the most current active cases: California 1,685,225. Virginia 612,595. Maryland 441,889. Kentucky 405,042. And Washington 222,871.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Shelby, TX. Reeves, TX. Joplin, MO. Dallas, MO. Hopkins, TX. Karnes, TX. Titus, TX. Ottawa, OK. And Moffat, CO.  There have been 605,903 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. NPR did not update the top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated so they remain: Vermont at 66%, Massachusetts at 62.1%, and Maine at 61.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 29.9%, Alabama at 32.9%, and Arkansas at 34.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 47.4%. The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Zambia up 8%. Macao, Trinidad and Tobago, and Ukraine 6%. And Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and Canada 4%.  Globally, cases were up 8% and deaths down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 22.  There are now 11,651,433 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 62,504. India 43,597. Indonesia 31,189. The U.K. 28,773. And Colombia 26,721. There have now been 3,991,577 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 6th, 2021.A very politically charged decision in Britain, which plans to get rid of laws requiring face masks and social distancing later this month despite surging delta variant numbers. The Prime Minister has even admitted doing so will likely drive the number of cases higher. While he stressed the pandemic is far from over, he said Britain would have to “learn to live with this virus.”Super spreader events are still a thing, especially where young people are involved. A club in The Netherlands had 165 of 600 attendees test positive after its grand reopening June 26. Attendees weren’t required to wear masks or distance - but did have to show a negative test to get in.A terrible scam has been revealed in India in which thousands of people given fake vaccines. Doctors and medical workers are among 14 people arrested for being involved. At 12 fake vaccination drives, recipients paid to get what they thought were vaccines, but which were in fact, saline water. The perpetrators made up to $28,000 this way.Speaking of scams, kids have apparently figured out how to fake a positive COVID-19 test so they can stay out of school. All it takes is a Coke. Actually, any soda will do, or even fruit juice. Putting a few drops directly onto LFT tests will make two lines appear that indicate the presence of the virus. This trick is largely being taught via TikTok.Another poll is suggesting that when it comes to trying to scare Americans about the delta variant, they aren’t buying it. The ABC News/Washington Post poll says 30% of adults haven’t gotten a vaccine and likely aren’t going to. Of this group, 73% think health officials are exaggerating the risk of the delta variant and 79% think they have little or no risk of getting sick.In the United States cases were up 5%, deaths are down 38%, and hospitalizations are down 17% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since June 22.  There are now 4,865,446 active cases in the United States. The five states with the most current active cases: California 1,683,562. Virginia 612,488. Maryland 441,854. Kentucky 404,672. And Washington 222,082. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Shelby, TX. Reeves, TX. Joplin, MO. Dallas, MO. Hopkins, TX. Karnes, TX. Titus, TX. Ottawa, OK. And Moffat, CO. There have been 605,567 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 66%, Massachusetts at 62.1%, and Maine at 61.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 29.9%, Alabama at 32.9%, and Arkansas at 34.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 47.4%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated people: Zambia up 9%, Trinidad and Tobago 7%, Pakistan 5%, and Malaysia and Australia 3%. Globally, cases were up 6% and deaths down 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 22. There are now 11,630,898 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 34,067. Indonesia 29,745. The U.K. 27,334. Colombia 25,366. And Russia 24,353.  There have now been 3,983,508 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 5th, 2021.We know the U.S. did not reach its goal of partially vaccinating 70% of Americans by July 4. But 20 states did. But there are some states where the vaccination level is 35% or less.The World Health Organization said the variants are moving faster than the global vaccine rollout. It’s urging leaders to speed up vaccinations or risk being overwhelmed. Delta’s been detected in at least 98 countries and is spreading in countries with both low and high vaccination coverage.And now there’s another Covid-19 variant to track called Lambda. And it has scientists puzzled because of its unusual set of seven mutations. This variant was first discovered in Peru and has spread to nearly 30 countries in four weeks. Lambda accounts for 82% of all new cases in Peru, which has the highest Coronavirus death rate in the world.It’s not really news anymore when a world leader gets COVID-19. It becomes news when the case is severe enough to cause hospitalization. And that’s what has happened to Luxembourg’s Prime Minister. He’s been hospitalized since yesterday morning after contracting the virus a week ago. The 48-year-old was isolating at home, but his case grew more threatening. He had had one dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine.  Probably won’t get many more downloads from Singapore because as far as they’re concerned, COVID-19 is over. It could become one of the first countries to stop even recording daily case numbers. Instead, they’ll monitor things like ICU cases and how many had to go on a ventilator. Health officials there said, “We can't eradicate it, but we can turn the pandemic into something much less threatening, like influenza, and get on with our lives.”In the United States cases were up 15%, deaths are down 26%, and hospitalizations are down 8% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since June 22.  There are now 4,874,268 active cases in the United States. The five states with the most current active cases: California 1,682,943. Virginia 612,370. Maryland 441,818. Kentucky 404,672. And Washington 222,082. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Shelby, TX. Titus, TX. Hopkins, TX. Dimmit, TX. Houston, TX. Reeves, TX. Karnes, TX. Ottawa, OK. Moffat, CO. And Dallas, MO.There have been 605,526 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Vermont at 65.8%, Massachusetts at 61.9%, and Maine at 61.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 29.8%, Alabama at 32.7%, and Arkansas at 34.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 47.1%.The 5 countries with the largest recent 24-hour increase in the number of fully vaccinated: Zambia 22%, Sri Lanka, Australia, and India 5%, and Macao and Oceana 4%. Globally, cases were up 6% and deaths down 18% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since June 22. There are now 11,661,551 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 40,387. Brazil 27,783. Indonesia 27,233. Colombia 26,265. And Russia 25,142.  There have now been 3,976,143 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 2nd, 2021. The African Union’s envoy tasked with procuring vaccines is blasting Europe, saying “not one dose, not one vial, has left a European factory for Africa.” The continent is experiencing a crushing third surge. The envoy accuses COVAX of withholding the fact key donors aren’t delivering on the money they promised the program.  A leading vaccination country is struggling as well. Israel reported its highest daily infection rate in three months. Authorities there are racing to vaccinate children and are considering tighter travel restrictions at Israel’s main airport. Some 85% of the adult population has been vaccinated.  It’s the first day of a national lockdown in Bangladesh. Daily tallies of new coronavirus infections have nearly quintupled over the past month. Less than 3% of residents there are fully vaccinated, and because of that, a public health activist said, “There will be a fourth wave, and a fifth before we can vaccinate everyone — while rich countries are lifting lockdowns and giving booster doses.”  At least six scientists resigned positions as editors with Vaccines, including one who was on the team that developed the AstraZeneca vaccine. They’re protesting the publication of a peer-reviewed article that misuses data to conclude that “for three deaths prevented by vaccination, we have to accept two inflicted by vaccination.” They say that assumes all deaths after vaccination are caused by the vaccine, which is grossly irresponsible. No apparent hesitation about vaccinating children in England. A recent survey shows almost nine in 10 parents favor giving their kid a vaccine if it’s offered. The survey was even conducted before the Pfizer vaccine was approved for children aged 12 to 15.  In the United States cases were down 10%, deaths are down 23%, and hospitalizations are down 12% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 18.  There are now 4,888,671 active cases in the United States.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Titus, TX. Campbell, VA. Red River, TX. Reeves, TX. Nacogdoches, TX. Houston, TX. Shelby, TX. Hopkins, TX. And Dallas, MO.  There have been 605,012 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 66. Florida 36. Texas 33. New York 15. Michigan 14. Illinois 13. Nevada 11. Pennsylvania and Louisiana 10. And Colorado 9.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose: Vermont unchanged at 73.9%, Massachusetts at 70.4%, and Hawaii at 69.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 36.2%, Louisiana at 38.1%, and Wyoming unchanged at 39.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 46.7%. The top 5 countries for full vaccinations per capita are Gibraltar, Malta, Seychelles, Cayman Islands, and San Marino. The bottom five are Papua New Guinea, Lesotho, South Sudan, Syria, and Liberia. Globally, cases were down 1% and deaths down 27% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since June 29.  There are now 11,520,146 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 63,140. India 43,360. Colombia 28,315. The U.K. 27,989. And Indonesia 24,836.  There have now been 3,953,911 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for July 1st, 2021.A new Oxford University study shows AstraZeneca and Pfizer’s vaccine remain broadly effective against Delta and Kappa variants. They looked at the ability of antibodies in the blood from vaccinated people to neutralize those variants. The study did show the concentration of neutralizing antibodies was somewhat reduced, which explains some breakthrough infections.We’ve said it many times; we report the numbers we get. That doesn’t mean those numbers are right. The Health Ministry in Mexico says COVID-19-related deaths there likely exceed the confirmed toll by a whopping 60%.Russia reported 669 coronavirus-related deaths yesterday. And that is the most confirmed in a single day since the beginning of the pandemic. A Delta variant surge is underway there. Russia’s coronavirus taskforce also confirmed 21,042 new cases in a 24-hour period with 5,823 of those in Moscow alone. A Gallup poll shows only 8% of Americans now mention COVID-19 as the most important problem in the U.S. In fact, it’s not even in the top two. Even at that number’s peak in April of 2020, it was still the top concern of less than half of Americans at 45%. Race relations is the #2 concern while the government is cited as the nation’s biggest problem.  A study out of Ontario says your pet cat is more likely to get COVID-19 than your pet dog. They don’t really know why. It could be something as simple as the fact most dogs have long noses. Regardless, nearly 70% of cats and more than 40% of pet dogs tested positive for antibodies. Most cases were mild and without symptoms.In the United States cases were down 10%, deaths are down 23%, and hospitalizations are down 12% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 18.  There are now 4,897,066 active cases in the United States. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Titus, TX. Campbell, VA. Red River, TX. Reeves, TX. Nacogdoches, TX. Houston, TX. Shelby, TX. Hopkins, TX. And Dallas, MO. There have been 604,714 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 42. Texas 22. Washington, New Jersey, and North Carolina 13. West Virginia 12. Georgia 11. Pennsylvania 8. And Illinois, Minnesota, and Alabama 7. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose: Vermont at 73.9%, Massachusetts at 70.3%, and Hawaii at 69.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 36.1%, Louisiana unchanged at 38%, and Wyoming at 39.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 46.4%.The top 5 countries for full vaccinations per capita are Gibraltar, Malta, Seychelles, Cayman Islands, and San Marino. The bottom five are Lesotho, South Sudan, Syria, Zambia, and Liberia.Globally, cases were down 8% and deaths down 34% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since June 26. There are now 11,452,980 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 48,878. Brazil 45,859. Colombia 27,908. The U.K. 26,068. And Argentina 22,673.  There have now been 3,945,551 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 30th, 2021.A new poll shows Americans are worried about the Delta variant…just not worried enough to do anything about it. The Ipsos poll shows more than 70% are at least somewhat concerned about it, but only 55% are wearing a mask all or sometimes when they leave the house and only 34% social distanced in the past week. And even if there was a new spike in cases, respondents were mostly unlikely to say they’d start taking precautions again. The National Institute of Health said two blood serum studies show India's Covaxin vaccine effectively neutralizes both Alpha and Delta variants of coronavirus. Covaxin has been administered to roughly 25 million people so far in India and elsewhere. It works using a disabled form of the virus that can’t replicate but still stimulates the immune system to make antibodies against it. New testing also shows Moderna's vaccine to be only slightly less effective against the Delta variant than others. The vaccine provoked an antibody response against all the variants tested, but it was far more effective against the Delta variant than the Beta variant first identified in South Africa.Bad timing. Daily cases have been going up for nine days in Tokyo, triggering fears of a possible fifth wave. And that’s happening less than a month before the city is due to host the Olympics. The minister overseeing Japan’s pandemic response said they won’t hesitate to call a new state of emergency if necessary.Being in charge of the pandemic response in any country is a nightmare. Try doing it in North Korea. Kim Jong Un publicly berated senior ruling party officials for their failures in the fight against the coronavirus, saying it created a “huge crisis.” He criticized them for incompetence, irresponsibility and passiveness. And yet, North Korea still claims not to have found a single coronavirus infection.In the United States cases were down 15%, deaths are down 23%, and hospitalizations are down 13% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 18.  There are now 4,900,140 active cases in the United States. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Reeves, TX. Campbell, VA. Panola, TX. Titus, TX. Houston, TX. Hopewell, VA. Red River, TX. Harrison, TX. And Dallas, MO.There have been 604,436 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 32. Texas and Colorado 20. Georgia 19. Arizona 17. California 16. Pennsylvania 12. Mississippi 11. And New York and Virginia 10.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose: Vermont at 73.8%, Massachusetts at 70.2%, and Hawaii at 69.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi unchanged at 35.9%, Louisiana at 38%, and Wyoming unchanged at 39%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 46.3%.The top 5 countries for full vaccinations per capita are Gibraltar, Malta, Seychelles, Cayman Islands, and San Marino. The bottom five are Lesotho, South Sudan, Syria, Zambia, and Liberia.Globally, cases were down 4% and deaths down 30% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since June 26. There are now 11,449,854 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 64,903. India 45,699. Colombia 25,880. Argentina 24,065. And Russia 20,616.   There have now been 3,936,463 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 29th, 2021.The World Health Organization says get your masks back on. Even if you’re fully vaccinated, mask up and go back to social distancing. But CDC guidance is that “fully vaccinated people can resume activities without a mask or physically distancing.” Plus, experts say vaccines authorized in the U.S. remain largely effective against the Delta variant. So again, we have public health bureaucracies thoroughly confusing the public.  The world continues to believe travel causes COVID-19 outbreaks. Hong Kong is banning all passenger flights from the U.K., which they’ve classified as high risk because of Delta variant spread. And Portugal has also put the U.K. on its red list for travel, even though Portugal itself has been reporting the highest number of daily new cases since February.  In Germany, the share of COVID-19 cases caused by the Delta variant more than doubled within a week, accounting for 36% of infections. They expect it to become the dominant strain by summer. In Germany, about 35% of the population is fully vaccinated. Experts in Australia describe their situation as the most dangerous stage of the pandemic since the earliest days. Sydney and Darwin are locked down. Perth made masks compulsory for three days and warned a lockdown could be coming. And Brisbane and Canberra have or will soon make masks compulsory. Here’s a positive story. 45-year-old Mary McCarthy of New Zealand works in a hospital kitchen, so she was tested in October 2020. It was painful, and the discomfort lasted weeks. A few doctors told her she had a chronic sinus condition, which she believed because she’d always had pain in her nose and shortness of breath. But the pain was so bad one day she decided to go to one more emergency room where doctors found…a toy that had been stuck up her nose for 37 years. A tiddlywink to be exact. In the United States cases were down 15%, deaths are down 16%, and hospitalizations are down 14% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 18.  There are now 4,929,192 active cases in the United States. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Reeves, TX. Campbell, VA. Franklin, TX. Dallas, MO. Upshur, TX. Panola, TX. Hopewell, VA. Taney, MO. And Joplin, MO. There have been 604,114 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Colorado 18. New York 16. Illinois 9. North Carolina and Washington 8. California 7. Mississippi 6. And Michigan, Virginia, Louisiana, and Minnesota 5. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose: Vermont at 73.6%, Massachusetts at 70.1%, and Hawaii at 69.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 35.9%, Louisiana at 37.9%, and Wyoming at 39%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 46.1%.The top 5 countries for vaccinations per capita are Gibraltar, Malta, Seychelles, Cayman Islands, and San Marino. The bottom five are Lesotho, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Syria, and Liberia.Globally, cases were down 3% and deaths down 28% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since June 26. There are now 11,499,287 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 37,037. Colombia 28,478. Brazil 27,804. The U.K. 22,868. And Russia 21,650.   There have now been 3,928,409 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 28th, 2021.The delta variant continues to turn back the clock. Moscow had a record 144 deaths in 24 hours yesterday. Germany declared Portugal a “virus-variant zone”, banning most arrivals from that country and is trying to ban British travelers from all EU countries regardless of vaccination status. Greece warned strict local lockdowns may be needed over the summer in some areas. Indonesia recorded a new high in daily cases, with similar spikes in Thailand and Malaysia. Sydney, Australia began a two-week lockdown. New Zealand suspended its quarantine-free travel corridor with Australia. Israel has reimposed mask requirements in enclosed public places. And in Africa, where vaccinations have been minimal, cases have jumped 25% over the last week.How can the U.S. get its vaccination numbers up now that they’ve stalled out? The White House thinks it’s something called the “movable middle.” That’s people who are unvaccinated, but still might be able to be convinced. And they’re using political campaign tactics to identify, reach, and win over those people. What the White House won’t do is promise we’ll ever know for sure the real origin of the pandemic that’s killed at least 3.9 million people. They say their review may not produce a definitive explanation. Although knowing the origin is critical to avoiding or preparing for future such catastrophes, governments, the media, and science organizations could leave us with no answers at all.Far more states have banned proof-of-vaccination policies than have created programs for people to digitally show their vaccination status. Hawaii is the only state enforcing some version of a vaccine passport. And only California, New York, and Louisiana have offered residents a way to voluntarily show proof of vaccination.Nothing’s ever good enough. NASA reports the COVID-19 pandemic and its lockdowns got rid of a lot of pollution around the world…but not all of it. They cite tiny airborne particles called PM2.5 as something that didn’t change much. These are produced by both human activity and natural processes and are associated with several effects on health. In the United States cases were down 18%, deaths are down 15%, and hospitalizations are down 15% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 18.  There are now 4,947,918 active cases in the United States. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Reeves, TX. Campbell, VA. Clay, NC. Franklin, TX. Panola, TX. Upshur, TX. Joplin, MO. Dallas, MO. And Taney, MO. There have been 603,966 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 31. New York 14. Pennsylvania 11. Texas 9. Utah 8. Virginia 5. Minnesota 4. New Jersey and Maryland 3. And Iowa 2. The vaccinating states update will be coming tomorrow, those numbers are not updated over the weekend.The top 5 countries for vaccinations per capita are Gibraltar, the United Arab Emirates, Malta, Seychelles, and the Cayman Islands. The bottom five are Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burkina Faso, Benin, and South Sudan.Globally, cases were down 6% and deaths down 28% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since June 26. There are now 11,547,517 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 46,643. Brazil 33,704. Colombia 32,376. Indonesia 21,342. And Russia 20,538.   There have now been 3,922,005 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 25th, 2021. We’re starting to see things move backwards. The coronavirus czar in Israel announced the indoor mask mandate will be reimposed early next week to stem the rise in cases. Yesterday was the highest daily tally in months. The country has one of the highest inoculation rates in the world, but it’s still far from the 80% figure needed to mark herd immunity. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Europe is “on thin ice” in its battle against COVID-19. EU leaders agreed vaccinations should be sped up to fight the delta variant. The European CDC projected the variant would account for 90% of all infections across the continent by the end of August.  As if the delta variant isn’t disturbing enough, a new mutation of that variant has emerged in India that’s being labeled “delta plus.” The variant has also been found in the U.K., the U.S., Canada, Japan, Nepal, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Switzerland, and Turkey. The delta plus variant has three worrying characteristics that include increased transmissibility, stronger binding to receptors of lung cells, and the potential reduction in monoclonal antibody response. San Francisco has taken a firm stand on the vaccine. All city workers will be required to be vaccinated. This policy would affect 35,000 workers and may be the first of its kind by any city or county in the U.S. Employees who refuse could be fired. There’s nothing like a crisis to bring out the scammers and criminals. Former PTL Club evangelist Jim Bakker and his southwestern Missouri church will pay $156,000 restitution to settle a lawsuit accusing him of falsely claiming a health supplement called the Silver Solution could cure COVID-19. Bakker admits no wrongdoing. The Silver Solution has no known benefit in the body when ingested and can have serious side effects including turning skin blue.  In the United States cases were down 19%, deaths are down 12%, and hospitalizations are down 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 18.  There are now 4,974,397 active cases in the United States.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Hutchinson, TX. Upshur, TX. Clay, NC. Hockley, TX. Titus, TX. Reeves, TX. Houston, TX. Franklin, TX. Gray, TX. And Harrison, TX. There have been 603,149 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 66. Texas 35. Michigan 31. Illinois 22. Georgia 17. North Carolina 15. Pennsylvania 13. Virginia and Nevada 10. And Washington and Louisiana 8.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose: Vermont unchanged at 73.3%, Massachusetts at 69.7%, and Hawaii at 69.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi unchanged at 35.7%, Louisiana at 37.6%, and Wyoming at 38.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 45.4%. The top 5 countries for vaccinations per capita are Israel, the U.K., the United States, Canada, and Germany. The bottom five are Chad, Burkina Faso, Benin, and South Sudan.  Globally, cases were down 8% and deaths down 23% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since June 12.  There are now 11,431,693 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 72,705. India 51,248. Colombia 32,997. Argentina 24,463. And Indonesia 20,574.   There have now been 3,898,531 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 24th, 2021.The New York Times reports a researcher in Seattle uncovered deleted files that show 13 partial genetic sequences for some of the earliest cases of COVID-19 in Wuhan. They don’t reveal the true origin of the virus but do firm up the idea it was circulating earlier than the outbreak at the Wuhan seafood market. About a year ago 241 genetic sequences from coronavirus patients went missing from an online database maintained by the National Institutes of Health. The researcher could find no scientific or procedural reason why the sequences were deleted.No need to worry about getting shot number three yet. The CDC said there’s no evidence yet to suggest a booster shot is needed. They did caution that could change as the pandemic evolves. If cases go up in fully vaccinated people or if waning antibody or T cell levels are identified, that could signal a booster need.A new study estimates life expectancy in the U.S. went down nearly two years between 2018 and 2020, mostly due to COVID-19. It’s a decrease not seen since World War II. The declines were most pronounced among minority groups. In 2018, average life expectancy was about 79 years. It’s now around 77.If someone tells you they wouldn’t take the vaccine for a million dollars, believe them. The Ohio vaccine lottery started off with promising results, but it ended yesterday with the state still unable to crack the 50% vaccination threshold.For some, and we’re not judging, it’s the surest sign yet the pandemic is over. The New York City Health Department released new guidelines encouraging everyone to get back out there and resume sexual activity — if you’re fully vaccinated. It also gave its okay to return to sex parties, sex with strangers, and encounters with multiple sex partners. In the United States cases were down 25%, deaths are down 20%, and hospitalizations are down 21% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 18.  There are now 4,984,406 active cases in the United States. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Hutchinson, TX. Hockley, TX. Clay, NC. Reeves, TX. Gray, TX. Stone, AR. Linn, MO. Moffat, CO. Upshur, TX. And Laclede, MO. There have been 602,833 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 59. Texas 35. Oklahoma 30. Georgia 21. New Jersey 18. Colorado 14. Washington 12. North Carolina 11. And Arizona and Louisiana 10. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose: Vermont at 73.3%, Massachusetts unchanged at 69.6%, and Hawaii unchanged at 69.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 35.7%, Louisiana unchanged at 37.5%, and Wyoming at 38.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 45.3%.The top 3 vaccinating countries by percentage of population that’s been fully vaccinated: Gibralter at 100%, Seychelles at 68.1%, and Malta at 65.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating countries are The Democratic Republic of Congo at 0%, and Uganda and Liberia at .01%. Globally, cases were down 10% and deaths down 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since June 12. There are now 11,372,064 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 114,139. India 54,319. Colombia 29,995. Argentina 27,319. And Russia 17,594.   There have now been 3,890,152 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 23rd, 2021.More than 150 employees at a Houston hospital system who refused the vaccine have been fired or have resigned. This after a judge dismissed a lawsuit filed by an employee against the system about their vaccine requirement. The judge said any claims that the vaccines are experimental or dangerous are false.The Inspector General at the Department of Health and Human Services reports that deaths among Medicare patients in nursing homes soared 32% last year. About 40% of Medicare recipients in nursing homes had or likely had COVID-19 in 2020. A Harvard health policy professor said, “We knew this was going to be bad, but I don't think even those of us who work in this area thought it was going to be this bad.” Canada will start relaxing its quarantine requirements for fully vaccinated U.S. residents July 5. Those regulations have been in place for 15 months. But it’s still only for authorized travel. Nonessential travel is still prohibited even though the northern US has a partial vaccination rate over 70% — similar to Canada’s, and Canada’s vaccination program is much slower than the United States’. Researchers in England are trying to find out if the flu shot and a Covid vaccine can be given at the same time. If so, that could save resources for healthcare providers and make things more convenient for consumers. Flu cases were basically non-existent last winter but it’s assumed with restrictions being lifted, a resurgence of flu viruses can be expected.We’ve heard about various groups who are most reluctant to get vaccinated but one group leads the way in vaccine acceptance. Doctors. A survey by the American Medical Association shows 96% of practicing physicians have been fully vaccinated. And of the 4% who aren’t yet, only 1.8% plan on never getting the vaccine.In the United States cases were down 21%, deaths are down 20%, and hospitalizations are down 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 18.  There are now under 5 million active cases in the United States, at 4,994,794. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Hutchinson, TX. Reeves, TX. Hockley, TX. Gray, TX. Lamb, TX. Linn, MO. Torrance, NM. Clay, NC. Moffat, CO. And Stone, AR. There have been 602,455 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 36. Colorado 32. California 20. New York 15. Washington and Idaho 14. Ohio 13. Florida 10. And North Carolina and Virginia 9. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose: Vermont at 73.2%, Massachusetts at 69.6%, and Hawaii at 69.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi unchanged at 35.4%, Louisiana unchanged at 37.5%, and Wyoming unchanged at 38.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 45.2%.The top 3 vaccinating countries by total vaccinations per capita are Gibralter, the United Arab Emirates, and Malta. The bottom 3 vaccinating countries are Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burkina Faso. Globally, cases were down 14% and deaths down 17% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since June 12. There are now 11,345,221 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 86,833. India 54,393. Colombia 28,616. Argentina 21,387. And Russia 16,715.   There have now been 3,880,341 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 22nd, 2021.The World Health Organization warned the delta variant is the fastest and strongest strain yet, one that will “pick off” the most vulnerable. And by most vulnerable, they mean the unvaccinated. It called the fact we haven’t protected front line workers a catastrophic moral failure at a global level. Delta has now spread to 92 countries.Indonesia had its largest one-day jump in new infections yesterday. The world's fourth most populous country has seen a surge in recent weeks blamed on travel during a holiday last month. In Jakarta, 80% of hospital beds are full. So far only 12.3 million of the country’s 270 million people are fully vaccinated.Russian President Vladimir Putin said the coronavirus situation in some regions of that country is getting worse. That contrasts with a statement he made this month about how Russia handled the pandemic better than many other nations. Saturday Moscow registered a record 9,120 cases. The Kremlin has denied people's distrust of authorities is a reason behind low vaccination rates.What many of the unvaccinated around the world fear might become a reality in Manila. The President there has threatened to jail people who refuse to take the shots. He was very clear, saying, "You choose, vaccine or I will have you jailed." The target is to vaccinate 70 million people this year, and so far they’re at only 2.1 million. But never underestimate just how serious people are about not taking the vaccine. Buffalo Bills wide receiver Cole Beasley said he would literally rather retire from the sport and end his career than get a vaccine. The league has relaxed protocols for players and staff who are fully vaccinated, but for the rest there’s daily testing, mask requirements and quarantines.In the United States cases were down 18%, deaths are down 21%, and hospitalizations are down 23% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since June 14.  There are now 5,034,868 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and New York. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Hutchinson, TX. Reeves, TX. Hockley, TX. Gray, TX. Dimmit, TX. Linn, MO. Stone, AR. Lamb, TX. Polk, MO. And Audrain, MO. There have been 602,086 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 23. Texas 12. Illinois 10. Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Minnesota 9. Virginia 8. Arizona and Massachusetts 5. And New York and South Carolina 4. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose; Vermont at 73.1%, Massachusetts at 69.5%, and Hawaii at 69%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 35.4%, Louisiana at 37.5%, and Wyoming at 38.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 45.1%.Globally, cases were down 13% and deaths down 15% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since June 12. There are now 11,415,731 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 41,878. India 39,096. Colombia 23,239. Russia 17,378. And Indonesia 14,536.   There have now been 3,870,373 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 21st, 2021.The CDC said the Delta variant now makes up at least 10% of all US cases. That’s up from 2.7% of cases on May 22, which illustrates just how fast this variant spreads. The CDC also now designated Delta as a variant of concern, meaning it may carry a risk of more severe illness and transmissibility. In the United Kingdom—it now accounts for 90% of cases.The U.S. sent 2.5 million doses of the Moderna vaccine to Taiwan yesterday. That triples an earlier pledge. The COVID-19 death toll on the island of 24 million people has jumped to 549, from only about a dozen prior to this outbreak.While Canada is ready to loosen travel restrictions for fully vaccinated Canadians this week, the Public Safety Minister said they want to reach a vaccination rate of 75% before fully reopening the border between Canada and the U.S. for nonessential travel. That means Canada needs to nearly quadruple its vaccination rate before that border reopens.Some emergency medicine officers overseeing Tokyo Olympic venues have a message for organizers. Don’t let spectators in. Those organizers will decide as soon as today whether to allow domestic spectators into stadiums. Foreign spectators are already banned. A recent poll shows 41% of Japanese still want the Games cancelled entirely. In Los Angeles, the impulse is to honor front line essential workers and first responders, but also to not follow their lead when it comes to vaccinations. A report shows vaccination rates for employees at police, fire, and corrections agencies are significantly lower than other adults. There’s also talk about whether those unvaccinated first responders could actually be a threat to public health instead of rescuers. In the United States cases were down 18%, deaths are down 21%, and hospitalizations are down 21% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since June 14.  There are now 5,077,520 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and New York. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Hutchinson, TX. Reeves, TX. Hockley, TX. Gray, TX. Dimmit, TX. Linn, MO. Stone, AR. Lamb, TX. Polk, MO. And Audrain, MO. There have been 601,826 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 23. Texas 12. Pennsylvania and Minnesota 9. Virginia 8. Arizona and Massachusetts 5. New York 4. New Jersey, Utah, Iowa, and Hawaii 2.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose was not updated by NPR. The numbers remain Vermont at 72.6%, Massachusetts at 68.7%, and Hawaii at 68.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 35.2%, Louisiana at 37.1%, and Alabama at 37.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 44.1%.Globally, cases were down 17% and deaths down 18% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since June 12. There are now 11,554,471 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 53,009. Brazil 44,178. Colombia 27,818. Russia 17,611. And Indonesia 13,737.   There have now been 3,864,694 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 18th, 2021.The surge in the U.K. is picking up steam with new cases going over 10,000 for the first time in nearly four months. The chief medical adviser said the surge “will definitely translate into further hospitalizations and further deaths.”In Africa, cases rose over 20% week-on-week in nearly two dozen countries and only 0.79% of the continent is fully vaccinated. Five countries, South Africa, Tunisia, Zambia, Uganda, and Namibia, account for 76% of the new cases.In Afghanistan, the U.S. Embassy has gone into a near-complete lockdown due to a massive spike in cases among employees. Staffers are isolating to prevent a spread that’s already killed at least one person, sent 114 into quarantine, and forced several people to be medically evacuated.And the World Health Organization warned Indonesia needs to increase social restrictions amid a fresh surge of cases there. The country’s president has ordered authorities to speed up the vaccination campaign.U.S. taxpayers might buy $3.2 billion worth of antiviral medicines. The White House plan, called the Antiviral Program for Pandemics, will speed clinical trials and the manufacture of promising Covid-19 treatments, with the goal of gaining FDA authorization within a year. Pretty much the things that were done in 2020.In the United States cases were down 21%, deaths are down 20%, and hospitalizations are down 23% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 4.  There are now 5,119,713 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and New York. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Linn, MO. Dimmit, TX. Reeves, TX. Livingston, MO. Stone, AR. Karnes, TX. Polk, MO. Hutchinson, TX. DeWitt, TX. And Candler, GA.  There have been 600,933 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 35. California 32. Georgia 30. Michigan 26. Illinois 21. Arizona 18. Pennsylvania 15. New York 14. Washington 8. And New Jersey, Colorado, Louisiana, and Nevada 7. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 72.6%, Massachusetts unchanged at 68.7%, and Hawaii at 68.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi unchanged at 35.2%, Louisiana at 37.1%, and Alabama at 37.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 44.1%.Globally, cases were down 19% and deaths down 5% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since June 12. There are now 11,645,381 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 74,327. India 62,409. Colombia 29,945. Argentina 23,780. And Russia 14,057.  There have now been 3,840,181 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 17th, 2021.It’s the return of travel. The European Union is recommending its member countries start lifting restrictions on tourists from the United States. The recommendation is non-binding, and different governments can require whatever tests or shots it feels are necessary to make sure tourists don’t pose a risk.Not all vaccines work so well. German vaccine maker CureVac said interim data from late-stage testing of its coronavirus shot show comparatively low effectiveness at 47%. Not surprisingly, the company's stock value tumbled in after-hours trading. The CEO said demonstrating high efficacy in this unprecedented broad diversity of variants is challenging.It’s one thing to be willing to get a vaccine yourself, it’s another when you’re responsible for the safety and well-being of a child. A new Harris poll shows 25% of parents do not intend to get their child vaccinated. Their reasoning is mostly that they want to wait for more data on safety and effectiveness in children.Many college kids don’t have a choice. If they want to attend classes, they have to be vaccinated. But not in Arizona. An executive order has prohibited public universities and community colleges from mandating COVID-19 tests, vaccines, and masks for students. The Governor said taxpayers pay for public education and universities need to be available for students to return to learning.In Moscow, they aren’t asking, they’re telling certain employees to get vaccinated. City authorities ordered all workers who interact with the public in any way to get the shot. That’s one of the most forceful steps taken anywhere in the world to compel employees to get a vaccination. The list covers more than 2 million workers in the Russian capital.In the United States cases were down 21%, deaths are down 20%, and hospitalizations are down 23% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 4.  There are now 5,133,340 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and New York. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Linn, MO. Dimmit, TX. Reeves, TX. Livingston, MO. Stone, AR. Karnes, TX. Polk, MO. Hutchinson, TX. DeWitt, TX. And Candler, GA.  There have been 600,648 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Georgia 57. Florida 55. Texas 40. Oklahoma 29. Illinois 26. California 19. Pennsylvania and North Carolina 18. And New York, New Jersey, and Arizona 12. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 72.5%, Massachusetts at 68.7%, and Hawaii at 68.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 35.2%, Louisiana unchanged at 37%, and Alabama at 37.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 43.9%.Globally, cases were down 24% and deaths down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since June 12. There are now 11,659,011 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 85,861. India 67,294. Colombia 27,827. Argentina 25,878. And the United States 14,063.  There have now been 3,830,127 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 16th, 2021.The U.S. death toll from COVID-19 topped 600,000 yesterday. That’s greater than the population of Baltimore or Milwaukee and equal to the number of Americans who died of cancer in 2019. Deaths have dropped to an average of 340 a day, with cases running at about 14,000 a day.California is open. It was the first state to put a lockdown in place. No more state rules on social distancing or capacity limits. Masks are no longer mandated for vaccinated people in most settings, though businesses and counties can still require them. And in New York, the state is easing many of its remaining social distancing rules and shooting off fireworks. Though unvaccinated citizens must still mask up while indoors in public places.A study of blood samples taken early last year is the latest and largest to suggest the coronavirus was in the U.S. in December 2019 — weeks before cases were first recognized by health officials. The analysis is not definitive, but the CDC says evidence is increasingly that there were rare, sporadic cases here early on, but it didn't become widespread until late February.Time to add another name to the vaccine roundup. Results from a Phase 3 clinical trial show the Novavax vaccine demonstrated 90.4% efficacy in preventing symptomatic COVID-19. And it showed 100% protection against moderate and severe disease. For people at high risk of complications like seniors and those with comorbidities, the vaccine was 91% effective in preventing symptomatic COVID-19.Some scientists at Yale say it’s possible that all you have to do to avoid a COVID-19 infection is make sure you always have a cold. Their research found exposure to the rhinovirus that usually causes the common cold can protect against coronavirus infection. It does so by jump-starting the early-response molecules in the immune system, provided the timing is just right. But colds have been a lot lower lately because why? Social distancing and masking.In the United States cases were down 20%, deaths are down 10%, and hospitalizations are down 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 4.  There are now 5,157,767 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and New York. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Linn, MO. Knox, KY. Laurel, KY. Karnes, TX. Livingston, MO. DeWitt, TX. Yuba, CA. Candler, GA. And Clay, NC.There have been 600,265 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 32. Michigan 30. Texas 28. Pennsylvania 22. California 19. Colorado 18. New York and Illinois 15. And Georgia and Washington 13. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 72.4%, Massachusetts at 68.6%, and Hawaii at 68.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi unchanged at 34.9%, and Louisiana and Alabama at 37%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 43.7%.Globally, cases were down 25% and deaths down 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since June 12. There are now 11,732,325 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 88,992. India 62,226. Argentina 27,260. Colombia 24,452. And Russia 14,185. There have now been 3,819,109 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 15th, 2021.The U.S. is not going to meet its vaccination goal and a new report from Stanford and the Kaiser Family Foundation points out why. The only demographic projected to exceed a 70% vaccination rate of at least one dose by July 4 are Asians. Whites are projected to be at 66% by that date, Hispanics at 63%, and Black Americans at 51%. The pace of vaccinations would need to speed up significantly to hit the national goal, the pace is in fact slowing down.The Delta variant has been detected in 74 countries and continues to spread rapidly on its way to becoming the dominant strain worldwide. Outbreaks have been confirmed in China, the U.S., Africa, Scandinavia, and Pacific rim countries. In the US, cases are doubling roughly every two weeks and account for 10% of all new cases, while in the UK it accounts for more than 90% of new cases.Because of the surge in England, as expected, the next planned relaxation of restrictions will be delayed four weeks, until July 19. The Prime Minister said the new date will be the final delay as the vaccination drive is accelerated.It’s like watching your parents having a disagreement. Dr. Marty Makary of the respected Johns Hopkins Hospital claimed the also respected CDC "sits on a lot of data.” Data that includes no child in a study of the effects of COVID-19 on youth died of COVID, and the hospitalization rate was lower for COVID than it was for influenza. He added the CDC and medical leadership fails people by "ignoring natural immunity,” remaining quiet when schools issue blanket vaccine mandates. Makary is in favor of vaccines, just not necessarily for those who are already immune.Hopefully, we can all still agree that front line healthcare workers, first-responders and essential workers were and are heroes throughout this pandemic. And New York City is going to honor them with a ticker tape parade. It’ll be July 7 on the Canyon of Heroes parade route in downtown Manhattan. In the United States cases were down 29%, deaths are down 23%, and hospitalizations are down 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 4.  There are now 5,283,026 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and Florida. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Linn, MO. Lamb, TX. Karnes, TX. Gray, TX. Hutchinson, TX. Livingston, MO. Hockley, TX. St. Thomas, VI. And DeWitt, TX. There have been 599,928 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: New York and North Carolina 27. Kansas 19. California and Colorado 12. Virginia 11. Illinois and Michigan 9. Alabama 8. And Louisiana 7. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 72.2%, Massachusetts at 68.5%, and Hawaii at 68.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi unchanged at 34.9%, Louisiana at 36.8%, and Alabama at 36.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 43.4%.Globally, cases were down 24% and deaths down 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending flat since June 10. There are now under 12 million active cases around the world, at 11,991,596.The five countries with the most new cases: India 62,597. Brazil 40,865. Colombia 24,376. Argentina 21,292. And Russia 13,721. There have now been 3,808,883 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 14th, 2021. An eye-opening statistic from Johns Hopkins, especially for those who think the pandemic was a 2020 thing. More people worldwide have died of COVID-19 already this year than during all of last year. 1.89 million reported in 2021 compared to the 1.88 million deaths counted as of December 31, 2020. Worldwide, an average of more than 9,000 deaths from COVID are still confirmed daily.  With the Prime Minister on the verge of delaying 'Freedom Day', a new report by Public Health England shows almost a third of Covid deaths in the U.K. from the Delta strain had gotten both injections of a vaccine. The report also suggests the Delta variant has a 64% increased risk of household transmission compared to the Alpha variant and is believed to be 40% more transmissible outdoors. They’re seeing something similar in China and Brazil. Doctors in southeastern China say the symptoms of the Delta variant are different and more dangerous than the initial virus. Patients get sicker and their conditions worsen faster. Chinese authorities did not say how many of the new infections are in people who have been vaccinated.  Moscow's mayor ordered a week off for some workplaces and imposed restrictions on many businesses to fight infections that have more than doubled in the past week. He said, “it’s impossible not to react to such a situation.” Russia was the first country to deploy a vaccine but only about 12% of the population has gotten vaccinated. If you think unvaccinated Americans are nervous about going out, think again. A CBS News poll shows they’re more "comfortable" going to a restaurant, bar or large event than the vaccinated are. The top reason given for not taking the shot is "still too untested.”  In the United States cases were down 29%, deaths are down 23%, and hospitalizations are down 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 4.  There are now 5,305,973 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and Florida.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Linn, MO. Lamb, TX. Karnes, TX. Gray, TX. Hutchinson, TX. Livingston, MO. Hockley, TX. St. Thomas, VI. And DeWitt, TX.  There have been 599,768 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Pennsylvania and Virginia 14. Illinois 12. Texas 11. New York and Minnesota 9. Arizona 7. California 6. And New Jersey, Kentucky, Maryland, and Iowa 3.   The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 71.8%, Massachusetts at 68.2%, and Hawaii at 68%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 34.9%, Alabama at 36.4%, and Louisiana at 36.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 42.6%. Globally, cases were down 28% and deaths down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since May 28.  There are 12,146,101 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 68,400. Brazil 36,998. Colombia 28,519. Russia 14,723. And Argentina 13,043.  There have now been 3,799,649 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 11th, 2021.Not a trend you want to see. The number of new daily cases and deaths in the U.S. rose for the third-straight day. The number of states that have seen the weekly trend of new cases rise this week inched up to 15 on Thursday from 14 on Wednesday.The remaining Group of Seven nations said we see America’s donation of 500 million vaccine doses for poorer nations and…well we won’t each match it but the six of us together will match it. That means 1 billion shots to eliminate supply inequities around the world. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine stays fresher longer. The FDA extended the expiration date on millions of doses of that vaccine by six weeks. The agency determined the shots will remain safe and effective for 4 1/2 months, up from the original three months. And that should help with COVID vaccine waste.A new Morning Consult survey show roughly 46% of U.S. adults now think Covid did indeed originate with a lab leak. 26% believe it began naturally and 28% don’t know or have no opinion. Only 17% of Americans say they have some or a lot of trust in the Chinese government, but 56% still have trust in the World Health Organization to tell the truth about the pandemic’s origins.The White House exempted most employers from rules to protect workers from the coronavirus. In fact, the rules only seem to apply to health care workers. In a related story, Houston Methodist hospital is suspending almost 200 workers for two weeks without pay for refusing to get vaccinated. In the United States cases were down 36%, deaths are down 20%, and hospitalizations are down 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 4.  There are now 5,383,382 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and Florida. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Scott, KY. Lamb, TX. Hutchinson, TX. Livingston, MO. Linn, MO. Hockley, TX. Harrison, KY. West Feliciana, LA. And Lincoln, WA. There have been 598,726 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 47. Michigan and Georgia 45. Texas 33. Arizona 27. Pennsylvania 21. New York 19. Kentucky and Illinois 17. And North Carolina 16. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont unchanged at 71.7%, Massachusetts at 68%, and Hawaii at 67.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 34.8%, Alabama unchanged at 36.2%, and Louisiana at 36.5%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 42.5%.Globally, cases were down 22% and deaths down 20% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since May 28. There are 12,676,530 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 91,266. Brazil 89,802. Colombia 29,302. Argentina 27,628. And the United States 14,880.    There have now been 3,769,088 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 10th, 2021.Yesterday we told you San Francisco might be the first major city to reach herd immunity. But yesterday Seattle’s Mayor declared 70% of that city’s residents 12+ have been fully vaccinated. The effort now is to get Seattle fully reopened and people supporting local small retailers and restaurants, arts and culture programming, and transit.U.S. taxpayers will apparently buy 500 million more doses of the Pfizer vaccine, all to be shared through the COVAX alliance. The vaccines will go to 92 lower income countries and the African Union over the next year.Many countries still have a tough road ahead and Haiti is one of them. It initially confounded health experts with low infection and death rates despite a weak public health system, a total lack of vaccines, and rejection of safety measures. But now it’s in trouble, with the few hospitals swamped and turning away patients. Haiti is experiencing its largest spike of the pandemic.The UK is on edge, recording the highest number of new cases in a single day since February. There are now fears of a third wave. The four nations had 7,540 cases in 24 hours, up 74% from a week ago. The Prime Minister will decide soon on whether England can go ahead with its planned full reopening June 21.Those who have survived COVID and don’t want to get a vaccine are embracing a story yesterday about a Cleveland Clinic study of healthcare providers. It found anyone who previously tested positive got no additional benefits from the vaccine. During the study of over 52,000 employees, not a single incidence of infection was observed in previously infected participants, regardless of whether or not they’d been vaccinated. However, the clinic still recommends anyone who can get the vaccine, should.In the United States cases were down 42%, deaths are down 20%, and hospitalizations are down 23% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 4.  There are now 5,397,142 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and Florida. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Lamb, TX. Livingston, MO. Hutchinson, TX. Linn, MO. Hockley, TX. West Feliciana, LA. Scott, KY. Harrison, KY. And Moffat, CO. There have been 598,760 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 38. New Jersey 31. Pennsylvania and Alabama 29. California 28. Illinois 27. Georgia 25. West Virginia 24. Colorado 20. And North Carolina 18. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 71.7%, Massachusetts at 67.9%, and Hawaii at 67.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 34.7%, Alabama unchanged at 36.2%, and Louisiana unchanged at 36.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 42.3%.Globally, cases were down 23% and deaths down 19% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since May 28. There are 12,714,267 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 93,896. Brazil 87,097. Argentina 29,757. Colombia 24,233. And the United States 14,201.    There have now been 3,754,914 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 9th, 2021.Experts say San Francisco may have become the first major city in the United States to hit herd immunity. Yes, there are still about 137 cases a day, but they aren’t gaining enough of a foothold to trigger wider outbreaks. And that, for all practical purposes, is what herd immunity looks like. Nearly 80% of residents have received at least one shot with 68% fully vaccinated. While San Francisco and some other places are doing a good job, the White House is increasingly resigning to the prospect the U.S. goal to have 70% of Americans at least partially vaccinated by July 4 will be achieved. The pace of new vaccinations has dropped below 400,000 people per day.The Toronto-based Mastercard Foundation is one of the biggest in the world. And over the next three years it’s going to spend $1.3 billion to vaccinate more than 50 million people in Africa. That country needs the help as fears grow of a third wave of infections. The single doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine should be available starting in August.Yes, it’s a wonder drug, but it doesn’t cure COVID-19. One of the biggest trials in Britain has learned Aspirin doesn’t improve the chances of survival in severely ill patients. Since aspirin helps reduce blood clots in other diseases, it was tested in COVID-19 patients. And although there was a small increase in the likelihood of being discharged alive, researchers determined it wasn’t enough to justify its widespread use.If your plan is to be clever and buy a fake vaccination card online, you might want to think again. The Federal Trade Commission says the real cards were never designed to prove vaccination long term. But the FBI said unauthorized use of an official government agency seal can get you a fine or up to five years behind bars.In the United States cases were down 42%, deaths are down 20%, and hospitalizations are down 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since June 4.  There are now 5,408,951 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and New York. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Lamb, TX. Livingston, MO. Hutchinson, TX. Linn, MO. Hockley, TX. West Feliciana, LA. Scott, KY. Harrison, KY. And Moffat, CO. There have been 598,323 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 58. Georgia 38. Texas 37. Pennsylvania 32. California 23. Washington 18. Illinois 14. And North Carolina, Arizona, and Tennessee 13. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 71.6%, Massachusetts at 67.8%, and Hawaii at 67.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 34.4%, Alabama unchanged at 36.2%, and Louisiana at 36.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 42.1%.Globally, cases were down 27% and deaths down 24% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since May 28. There are 12,842,257 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 91,227. Brazil 52,448. Argentina 31,137. Colombia 18,586. And the United States 13,542.    There have now been 3,744,378 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 8th, 2021.Increasing vaccinations in the U.S. from this point on may prove difficult. A Gallup survey shows 76% of U.S. adults say they’ve been vaccinated or plan to be, a number that hasn’t moved much in three months. Among those not planning to be vaccinated, 78% say they won’t reconsider. 53% of U.S. adults say they’re worried about people choosing not to get vaccinated, and it’s now the public's greatest worry about the virus by far. You still hear about breakthrough infections, but a CDC study shows vaccinated people, if they do get infected, have milder cases than the unvaccinated; 40% less virus in their bodies, 58% less likely to have a fever, and two fewer days spent in bed. They also appear less likely to spread the virus to others. The Delta variant is wreaking havoc in beautiful Fiji. It’s another country that had good success in the first year but now it’s struggling with a record surge in cases. Fiji only recorded 70 cases before April this year. It’s now recorded 751. Three of the new cases are employees at the nation's Covid-19 management team. India is changing its approach. The government will provide free vaccine shots to any adult starting later this month and take back control of the country's vaccination effort, which has been hampered by delays and shortages. Up to now it was the states and private sector tasked with the vaccination rollout. My how times have changed. Not only is marijuana a legal recreational drug now, it’s being used as bait to get people to take a vaccine for their health. The Liquor and Cannabis Board of Washington approved a temporary allowance for cannabis retailers to offer “Joints for Jabs.” One joint for every adult customer who gets a vaccination at an in-store vaccination clinic.In the United States cases were down 45%, deaths are down 22%, and hospitalizations are down 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,436,877 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and New York. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Livingston, MO. Linn, MO. Moffat, CO. West Feliciana, LA. Dimmit, TX. Hutchinson, TX. Harrison, KY. Lamb, TX. Lincoln, WA. And Scott, KY.There have been 597,946 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: North Carolina 48. New York 45. Illinois 20. Alabama 19. Washington 17. Kansas 16. Texas 14. Colorado 13. Michigan 12. And California 10. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 71.4%, and Hawaii and Massachusetts at 67.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi unchanged at 34.3%, and Alabama and Louisiana at 36.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 41.9%.Globally, cases were down 22% and deaths down 16% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since May 28. There are now under 13 million active cases around the world, at 12,998,140.The five countries with the most new cases: India 87,345. Brazil 38,750. Argentina 22,195. Colombia 21,949. And the United States 12,283.    There have now been 3,734,609 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 7th, 2021.The Group of Seven is a summit of the world’s wealthier democracies, it’s happening next week, and the UK will use that occasion to urge world leaders to commit to vaccinating the world by the end of 2022. Britain pledged in February to give most of its surplus supply to COVAX, the U.N.-backed program to vaccinate poorer countries.There might be a new kind of COVID-19 vaccine as soon as this summer. It’s based on known technology and doesn't require special refrigeration. What makes it different is the current vaccines deliver genetic instructions for the spike protein, then our bodies’ cells have to make that protein. This vaccine contains the spike protein itself — so it's already made — plus something that enhances the immune system's response.We finally bring you good news out of India. Daily cases yesterday dropped to the lowest level seen in over two months. It’s a welcome turnaround after a brutal second wave. Cases peaked May 9 and have dropped over 68% from the peak. Plus 66% of new cases are in just five states, an indication transmission has been contained to a localized area.Royal Caribbean says it won’t require US passengers to get vaccinated to go on several ships set to sail this summer out of Florida, they’ll just strongly encourage it. And the unvaccinated may have to undergo testing and follow some restrictions. Florida’s governor threatened to fine cruise lines $5,000 each time they required a guest to show proof of vaccination.Pro golfer Jon Rahm was on the golf course, leading by six shots at the Memorial Tournament when he was told he’d tested positive for COVID-19. He had to withdraw, likely costing him the trophy and oh yeah, $1.6 million. It led to much debate on Twitter; some said if he’d been vaccinated in his home state of Arizona March 24 this wouldn’t have happened. Others said what a tragedy this would be if the test was a false positive.In the United States cases were down 45%, deaths are down 23%, and hospitalizations are down 19% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,475,679 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and New York. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Livingston, MO. Linn, MO. Moffat, CO. West Feliciana, LA. Dimmit, TX. Hutchinson, TX. Harrison, KY. Lamb, TX. Lincoln, WA. And Scott, KY.There have been 597,627 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Illinois 38. California 32. New York 26. Texas 17. Virginia 7. New Jersey and Maryland 6. And Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Iowa 4. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 71.2%, Hawaii at 67.4%, and Massachusetts at 67.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 34.3%, Alabama at 36.1%, and Louisiana at 36.2%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 41.6%.Globally, cases were down 26% and deaths down 22% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since May 28. There are now 13,251,679 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 101,232. Brazil 39,637. Colombia 24,050. Argentina 16,415. And Russia 9,163.    There have now been 3,726,107 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 4th, 2021. The United States sends its first shipments of surplus vaccine doses abroad today. 80 million doses by the end of June to start with. 75% of the first 25 million doses will be allotted through COVAX, the international distribution system to help with vaccinations in the world's poorest countries. California will fully reopen in less than two weeks and do away with almost all mask and social distancing requirements for the vaccinated people. But the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board is considering new workplace rules that even vaccinated employees must remain masked unless everyone in their workspace is inoculated. The California Chamber of Commerce is not pleased. We’re hearing a lot about vaccinations but what about effective treatments for COVID-19, and what about outright cures for it? The task is to develop a drug that targets the virus itself. So far, only one antiviral treatment — remdesivir — is recommended for use in the U.S., and experts say it’s not effective enough. A team at Miami’s Ridgeback Biotherapeutics began work in the spring of 2020 to find a possible treatment and get ready for the clinical trials. Now their drug, molnupiravir, is one of two medicines to treat COVID-19 nearing the end of clinical testing. Another report of inaccurate reporting. Two new studies show COVID-19 is many times more prevalent in Indonesia than shown by official figures. The inaccuracies are the result of a lack of testing and contact tracing. One study suggested 15% of Indonesians had already contracted COVID-19 - when official figures had infections at only around 0.4% of people. You’d think with all the lockdowns and working from home U.S. traffic deaths would have dropped tremendously. Not at all. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says traffic deaths rose 7% last year, the biggest increase in 13 years. The agency blamed it on drivers taking more risk because roads were less congested. In the United States cases were down 46%, deaths are down 35%, and hospitalizations are down 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,537,566 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and New York. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Livingston, MO. Linn, MO. Dimmit, TX. Karnes, TX. Lincoln, WA. Moffat, CO. Tyler, TX. Reeves, TX. And LaSalle, LA. There have been 596,401 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 62. Texas 57. Florida 49. Pennsylvania 34. Georgia 33. Oklahoma 25. Illinois 24. Washington 23. California 22. And Alabama 21. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 70.7%, Hawaii at 66.9%, and Massachusetts at 66.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 34.3%, Louisiana at 35.9%, and Alabama at 36.1%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 41%. Globally, cases were down 27% and deaths down 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since May 28. There are now 13,573,286 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 131,371. Brazil 83,391. Argentina 32,291. Colombia 28,624. And the United States 17,821.     There have now been 3,698,371 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 3rd, 2021. CDC data shows twelve U.S. states now have 70% of adult residents who’ve had at least one Covid vaccine shot. California and Maryland are the newest to hit that mark, joining Vermont, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Jersey, Rhode Island, New Mexico, Pennsylvania and New Hampshire. The national goal is to have one shot or more administered to 70% of those 18 and older by July 4. It’s a question that gets asked a lot, can you mix vaccines. Meaning one dose of one kind and the second dose of another kind. An official Canadian panel said people who got a first shot of AstraZeneca can get a different shot for their second dose. That’s not news AstraZeneca wanted, but it’s what was ruled. And it was also decided vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna can be interchangeable. Cases continue to go up in Taiwan so now there’s a mass vaccination plan to cover 1.7 million people a week. The country had already placed curbs on gatherings and ordered entertainment venues closed. Taiwan has vaccinated just about 3% of its people. Increasingly, it looks like the U.S. will not reach herd immunity as vaccine acceptance continues to stall. Vox gathered up the six main reasons experts believe people are slow to get vaccinated or refuse to get vaccinated. Lack of access, either real or perceived, they don’t see Covid-19 as that big a threat, fear of vaccine side effects, lack of trust in the vaccines, lack of trust in institutions like government and health bureaucracies, and a vast array of conspiracy theories. It’s become obvious the pandemic has changed the approach to work forever. A Morning Consult survey found 39% of workers would actually consider quitting if their bosses did not remain flexible about working from home. Most of those who said that were millennials and Gen Z. Just 2% of respondents said they wanted to work in the office full time again. In the United States cases were down 45%, deaths are down 44%, and hospitalizations are down 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,556,774 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and New York. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Livingston, MO. Linn, MO. Torrance, NM. Lincoln, WA. Reeves, TX. Moffat, CO. LaSalle, LA. Koochiching, MN. And Webster, KY. There have been 595,822 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 55. Texas 52. Pennsylvania 45. California 35. Michigan 34. Georgia 29. New Jersey 28. Arizona 20. Virginia 12. And Alabama 11. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 70.7%, Hawaii at 66.9%, and Massachusetts at 66.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 34%, Louisiana at 35.8%, and Alabama at 36%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 40.9%. Globally, cases were down 27% and deaths down 9% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since May 28. There are now 13,668,387 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 134,105. Brazil 94,509. Argentina 35,017. Colombia 27,000. And the United States 16,974.     There have now been 3,687,575 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 2nd, 2021. Good decisions come from good data and throughout the pandemic the data has been questionable. Case in point, Peru has more than doubled its official death toll after a government review. That instantly makes it the country with the highest coronavirus-related death rate per capita. And just 3% of Latin Americans have been fully vaccinated.  In the UK, they’re dwelling on good news. There were no deaths from Covid-19 for the first time since July of 2020. That means no one died within 28 days of testing positive. Experts caution that while the number is obviously low, it might not be zero. Deaths announced on any given day usually occurred earlier, and the total by date of death is calculated later. The variant that first emerged in India, which we are now supposed to call variant Delta, is spreading rapidly in the US. It now makes up 7% of new cases, up from 1% at the start of May. Experts say the variant is 60% more transmissible. Health officials say the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines can handle it. In an effort to get travel going again, at least between EU countries, Greece, Germany and five other EU nations introduced a vaccination certificate system that will roll out July 1. Certificates are issued to people who are fully vaccinated as well as those who’ve already had the virus and developed antibodies and others who’ve had a PCR test within the last 72 hours. Incentives only work if you know what the people want, and West Virginia believes its people want guns. The state is giving the newly-vaccinated the chance to win not just money, but five custom hunting rifles and five custom shotguns. A poll conducted between March 20 and April 19 found 28% of West Virginians were unwilling to get the vaccine. In the United States cases were down 46%, deaths are down 36%, and hospitalizations are down 23% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,585,384 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and New York.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Livingston, MO. Linn, MO. Torrance, NM. Chattahoochee, GA. Dimmit, TX. Karnes, TX. Lincoln, WA. Mesa, CO. Alamosa, CO. And Koochiching, MN. There have been 595,205 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Illinois 38. Florida 23. New York and Virginia 13. Missouri 10. Maryland 7. Mississippi 6. Pennsylvania and New Jersey 5. And South Carolina, Kentucky, and South Dakota 4.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 70.2%, Hawaii at 66.5%, and Massachusetts at 66.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 34%, Louisiana at 35.7%, and Alabama at 36%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 40.7%. Globally, cases were down 28% and deaths down 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since May 28.  There are now under 14 million active cases around the world, at 13,939,592. The five countries with the most new cases: India 133,228. Brazil 77,898. Argentina 35,355. Colombia 25,966. And the United States 12,976.     There have now been 3,557,144 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for June 1st, 2021.The World Health Organization announced from now on, coronavirus variants are to be known by letters of the Greek alphabet to avoid stigmatizing and discriminating against nations where they were first detected. The UK variant will be known as Alpha, the South Africa Beta, Brazil will be Gamma, and India Delta. They also considered naming the variants after Greek Gods.New coronavirus cases leaped 73% in Washington in the week ending Sunday. With 2.29% of the country's population, Washington had 5.93% of the country's cases in the last week. Five states had more cases in the latest week than they did the week before. Washington has 56.5% of its residents at least partially vaccinated. Stocks in Malaysia fell after the government announced a nationwide two-week “total lockdown” to curb its rapidly rising daily infections. Last week, the country reported five-consecutive days of record increases in cases.In Thailand, new reported cases surged yesterday to the highest level thus far. The country is redoubling efforts to stop the spread in labor camps, factories, and markets. Concern prompted the government to overrule a plan by Bangkok’s governor to ease some restrictions that was supposed to start today. With the pandemic seemingly easing, some are taking stock of the various tolls its taken. For instance, a study shows as many as 43,000 children in the U.S. are estimated to have lost at least one parent to COVID-19 by February. That’s a dramatic 20% increase in parental bereavement compared to a typical year. The study also found Black children have been hit the hardest — they comprise 14% of children but represent 20% of those who lost a parent to the virus.In the United States cases were down 46%, deaths are down 36%, and hospitalizations are down 19% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,639,539 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and New York. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Livingston, MO. Linn, MO. Torrance, NM. Chattahoochee, GA. Dimmit, TX. Karnes, TX. Lincoln, WA. Mesa, CO. Alamosa, CO. And Koochiching, MN.The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Washington, Colorado, West Virginia, and Wyoming.There have been 594,568 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Illinois 38. New York and Virginia 13. Missouri 10. Maryland 7. Mississippi 6. Pennsylvania and New Jersey 5. And South Carolina and South Dakota 4. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 70.2%, Hawaii at 66.5%, and Massachusetts at 66.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 34%, Louisiana at 35.7%, and Alabama at 36%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 40.7%.Globally, cases were down 31% and deaths down 16% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since May 28. There are now 14,161,013 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 126,698. Brazil 32,554. Argentina 28,175. Colombia 23,177. And Iran 11,042.    There have now been 3,546,731 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 31st, 2021. A hospital in Houston is being sued by 117 employees who say it’s turning them into vaccine “guinea pigs” and breaking the law by requiring they get the shot. The lawsuit alleges compulsory vaccines violate the Nuremberg Code, created as a reaction to Nazi medical experiments. However, updated guidance from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission says yes, employers of all kinds can require the vaccine.  In New York, interest in vaccines is plummeting and incentives aren’t working. In the 24 hours ending 11 a.m. Saturday, there were less than half the doses given just three weeks ago. Rewards like Mets and Yankees tickets, free drinks, and a lottery don’t seem to be helping. And in Arkansas, citizens appear they’d rather let the vaccines rot than take them. Nearly 60,000 doses are set to expire and will be trashed at the end of June. South Africa will go back to stricter lockdowns after a sharp rise in cases that indicate the virus is “surging again” in Africa's worst-affected nation. Positive cases in the past seven days were 31% higher than the week before, and cities like Johannesburg and Pretoria are in a third wave. The words “third wave” are also being used in the U.K. Scientists have warned ministers it may have already started and plans to lift all restrictions in England are premature. A surge in hospital admissions could leave the NHS struggling as it works to clear the huge backlog of non-Covid cases. A reminder out of Florida not being vaccinated could get expensive. A concert promoter is saying those who can prove they’re fully vaccinated can pay $18 per ticket to attend a concert in Saint Petersburg June 26. Those who can’t will be charged $999.99 per ticket. The logic is unvaccinated people will scare off vaccinated ticket buyers so they have to pay to make up for the damage they’re causing.  In the United States cases were down 39%, deaths are down 27%, and hospitalizations are down 21% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,592,640 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, and New York.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Livingston, MO. Linn, MO. Torrance, NM. Chattahoochee, GA. Dimmit, TX. Karnes, TX. Lincoln, WA. Mesa, CO. Alamosa, CO. And Koochiching, MN. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Colorado, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming. There have been 594,430 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Illinois 19. New York 15. Virginia 13. Texas 12. California 10. Minnesota and Maryland 8. New Jersey 6. And Pennsylvania, Indiana, and South Carolina 5.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 70%, Hawaii at 66.4%, and Massachusetts at 66%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 34%, Louisiana at 35.6%, and Alabama at 36%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 40.5%. Globally, cases were down 29% and deaths down 13% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since May 28.  There are now 14,354,573 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 153,485. Brazil 43,520. Argentina 21,346. Colombia 20,218. And Russia 9,694.     There have now been 3,538,160 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 28th, 2021.Data from Johns Hopkins shows average daily Covid case counts in the U.S. are at less than half the level recorded at the start of May. The country is seeing an average of 23,407 new infections per day over the past week. The U.S. reports an average of 1.7 million daily vaccinations, and nearly 50% of the population has received one dose or more. Case counts have not been this low since June 2020.Melbourne, Australia was set to enter its fourth lockdown yesterday as concerns grow over the rapid spread of infections from a variant. This one will be seven days. Victoria’s Acting Premier said, “Unless something changes, this will be increasingly uncontrollable.”The incentives continue. California is giving away the country's largest pot of vaccine prize money — $116.5 million — to get more people inoculated before the state fully reopens next month. The prize includes $1.5 million each for 10 Californians. And yes, those who’ve already gotten partially or fully vaccinated are eligible.Lisa Shaw, a news presenter for BBC Newcastle, died at 44 after being treated for blood clots and bleeding and after getting the AstraZeneca shot. But now, German scientists think they know more about why these blood clot issues happen. The cold viruses used by some vaccines to insert the spike protein of COVID-19 into the nucleus of the cell can, in some people, cause bits of the proteins to enter the nucleus and break up. Those fragments enter the bloodstream and can cause clotting. The European Medicines Agency said they know of 169 such cases after 34 million doses.From the “oh the irony” department. For over a year, we’ve been on pins and needles about a virus that attacks the respiratory system and could kill us. But new research shows that in 2019, smoking killed almost 8 million people and more people started smoking. An all-time high of 1.1 billion. It’s mostly young people who are picking it up and 89% of new smokers were addicted by the time they were 25.In the United States cases were down 35%, deaths are down 20%, and hospitalizations are down 23% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,690,075 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, New York, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Torrance, NM. Livingston, MO. Linn, MO. Lincoln, WA. Koochiching, MN. Alamosa, CO. Dimmit, TX. Karnes, TX. And Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Missouri, Colorado, Wyoming, and Washington. There have been 593,282 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 86. Michigan 62. Texas 51. California 48. Illinois 44. Pennsylvania and Georgia 39. North Carolina 24. Tennessee 22. And Oregon 21. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 70.2%, Hawaii at 65.6%, and Massachusetts at 65.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 33.7%, Louisiana at 35.3%, and Alabama at 35.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 39.7%.Globally, cases were down 30% and deaths down 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 26. There are now 14,767,886 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 179,770. Brazil 66,722. Argentina 41,080. Colombia 25,092. And the United States... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 27th, 2021. France is imposing a mandatory quarantine on visitors from Britain to slow the spread of the Indian variant. Germany has even stricter limits on people coming in from the U.K. Travel companies can only transport German citizens and residents from Britain. CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said she was relying on a study in a top infectious disease journal when she said outdoor transmission accounted for less than 10% of cases. Now the New York Times reports a co-author of that study says that was misleading, because the actual number is far less, "probably substantially less than 1%." There’s seemingly a news story every time a breakthrough infection occurs in someone who’s been fully vaccinated. It seems like breakthroughs are happening a lot. But a new CDC report says that’s incredibly rare. How rare? It’s estimated such infections may occur in 0.01% of all fully vaccinated people. And only 10% of that .01% required hospitalization. Researchers announced an average 15% of Brazil's citizens have COVID-19 antibodies. That research was done at the beginning of the vaccine rollout when less than 1% had gotten even one dose. The presence of those antibodies suggests these people were likely infected at some point and may have at least some immunity. Probably not a good idea to censor theories about how the pandemic started long before the facts have been established. But that’s what Facebook did. Deeming any mention of the possibility the virus leaked from a Wuhan lab as conspiratorial misinformation, Facebook removed, blocked, and banned such content. It has now reversed that policy, as Republicans and Democrats alike call for more scrutiny into the origins of Covid-19. In the United States cases were down 37%, deaths are down 12%, and hospitalizations are down 23% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,702,760 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, New York, and Kentucky.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Linn, MO. Livingston, MO. Torrance, NM. Karnes, TX. Lincoln, WA. Dimmit, TX. Koochiching, MN. Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK. And Alamosa, CO.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Missouri, Delaware, Colorado, and West Virginia. There have been 591,941 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 70. Texas 61. Pennsylvania 42. Georgia 36. California and New Jersey 34. Colorado 33. Illinois 28. North Carolina 27. And New York 23.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 69.9%, Hawaii at 65.3%, and Massachusetts at 65%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 33.6%, Louisiana at 35.1%, and Alabama at 35.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 39.5%. Globally, cases were down 32% and deaths down 9% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 26.  There are now 14,861,104 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 211,553. Brazil 79,459. Argentina 35,399. The United States 23,500. And Colombia 23,487.    There have now been 3,493,704 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 26th, 2021.The CDC reports nearly one out of two Americans have now received at least one dose of a vaccine as of yesterday. And half of citizens 18 and over have been fully vaccinated. The United States has administered 287,788,872 doses.Elsewhere, problems remain. Bahrain's health ministry reported the highest daily death toll in that small island nation as a surge in cases hits record levels. Authorities mostly blame it on large gatherings during Ramadan. And in Malaysia, an outbreak is getting worse and spilling over into neighboring Thailand. Hospitals in Malaysia are strained, and the country has imposed a near lockdown until June 7.Moderna reports trials of its vaccine show it’s safe and effective for teenagers. They’ll submit the results to the FDA in hopes of getting authorization for use in kids aged 12 to 17. It’s hoped this increased access could boost supply ahead of the new school year's start this fall.However, uptake of the virus in young Americans is proving to be a problem. Those 24 and younger are getting doses at much lower rates. For those 12 to 15, only 1.4% have gotten at least one dose. Only 1.7% of 16- to 17-year-olds have done so, and 7.6% of 18- to 24-year-olds have. Experts point out that while younger people don't face a high chance of serious illness, they still risk long-term symptoms if they get COVID-19.It’s getting kicked up a notch. The Republican led U.S. Senate and Democrat led House of Representatives intelligence committees are conducting their own investigations into the origins of the pandemic. There appear to be still-classified reports researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology became so ill they sought hospital care way back in November 2019. There are fears a lack of transparency will frustrate reaching an authoritative account of how the virus was unleashed.In the United States cases were down 37%, deaths are down 13%, and hospitalizations are down 23% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,735,539 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, New York, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Livingston, MO. Linn, MO. Charlton, GA. Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK. Lincoln, WA. Koochiching, MN. Alamosa, CO. Karnes, TX. And Alleghany, VA. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Delaware, Wyoming, Michigan, Colorado, and Maine.There have been 590,922 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 93. Michigan 71. Pennsylvania 45. Texas 42. California 39. Georgia 38. New York 31. New Jersey 25. Virginia 21. And Illinois 18. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 69.6%, Hawaii at 65%, and Massachusetts at 64.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 33.2%, Louisiana at 35.1%, and Alabama at 35.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 39.3%.Globally, cases were down 31% and deaths down 7% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 26. There are now under 15 million active cases around the world at 14,996,161.The five countries with the most new cases: India 208,886. Brazil 74,845. Argentina 24,601. The United States 22,738. And Colombia 21,181.  There have now been 3,480,781 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 25th, 2021.India crossed another milestone yesterday with more than 300,000 people lost to the coronavirus. That death toll is the third highest in the world after the U.S. and Brazil, accounting for 8.6% of coronavirus fatalities globally. It’s still believed the real numbers are much higher. Speaking of Brazil, its Health Ministry confirmed just shy of 450,000 dead from the virus.A damning report based on NHS data shows up to 8,700 patients in England died after catching Covid-19 while in a hospital being treated for another medical problem. Former health secretary Jeremy Hunt said hospital-acquired Covid “remains one of the silent scandals of this pandemic”.Many people who had COVID-19 don’t feel the need to get the vaccine because they believe they have ongoing immunity. Research out of Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis appears to back them up. It shows months after recovery, when antibody levels in the blood have declined, immune cells in bone marrow stay ready to dispatch new antibodies against the coronavirus. These cells were found up to eleven months after mild COVID-19. It’s not clear yet if the same results would be seen in survivors of moderate to severe COVID-19.Even as they worried about dying from COVID-19, many people this past year were risking death from alcoholic liver disease. Cases are up 30% at the University of Michigan's health system, and liver specialist Dr. Jessica Mellinger says colleagues at other institutions tell her it’s “off the charts.” The CDC has not collected data on increase in hospitalizations from alcoholic liver disease since the pandemic began. Add this group to the list of people who are really good about getting vaccinated. Pharmacists. A survey found 88% are fully vaccinated and 92% plan to or have already had a dose. 98% feel comfortable addressing vaccine hesitancy concerns with customers.In the United States cases were down 38%, deaths are down 15%, and hospitalizations are down 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,754,591 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, New York, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Livingston, MO. Linn, MO. Charlton, GA. Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK. Koochiching, MN. Karnes, TX. Lincoln, WA. Alamosa, CO. And Dukes, MA. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Delaware, Colorado, Wyoming, Michigan, and Maine.There have been 590,516 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: New York 51. North Carolina 29. Florida 28. Colorado 25. California 21. Maryland 15. Michigan and New Mexico 14. Louisiana 13. And Texas 12. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 68.9%, Massachusetts at 64.6%, and Hawaii at 64.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 33.2%, Louisiana at 35%, and Alabama at 35.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 39.2%.Globally, cases were down 26% and deaths down 7% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since May 22. There are now 15,196,725 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 195,815. Brazil 37,563. Argentina 22,651. The United States 19,866. And Colombia 16,977.   There have now been 3,469,419 deaths reported as Covid-related... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 24th, 2021.There was a time anyone who suggested the novel coronavirus escaped from a lab in Wuhan was branded a conspiracy theorist, so certain was the reporting that it emerged naturally. Now none other than Dr. Anthony Fauci says he’s not convinced. He joins the rising number of voices calling for a real investigation into the virus' origins. For example, the Wall Street Journal reported three researchers from China's Wuhan Institute of Virology sought hospital care in November of 2019, months before the outbreak was disclosed. Their source was a previously undisclosed U.S. intelligence report.New cases in the United States have dropped to rates not seen since June, sparking optimism vaccinations are limiting severe cases and virus spread. Increasingly, pre-pandemic life has largely resumed, with states that have stuck to restrictions preparing to drop them. Health experts however continue to say not enough Americans have been vaccinated to eliminate the potential for new variants to extend the pandemic.Late last week, Taiwan moved to its second highest COVID alert level after a surge of cases. And because the country last year recorded zero cases of community transmission for eight straight months, and now it’s in the hundreds, people are asking what happened? Many say its Taiwan’s very slow vaccine rollout, and that Australia should take heed because it too is having a slow rollout.There’s an image you might have been given about what kind of people are reluctant about the vaccines. Which is fine provided that image includes young mothers. A study out of Northwestern, Harvard, and Rutgers shows parents are more likely to resist the vaccine vs other adults across all racial groups. 73% of black parents expressed being vaccine hesitant or resistant. And the study found young mothers are the most vaccine resistant among all groups.In India, an extreme example of vaccine hesitancy and the result of vaccine misinformation. A team of health officials arrived in a village in Barabanki to administer vaccinations, and numerous citizens jumped in the river and started swimming away to avoid them. Only 18 people took the shot. Others believed they were about to be injected with poison.In the United States cases were down 39%, deaths are down 14%, and hospitalizations are down 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,790,318 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, Maryland, New York, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Livingston, MO. Charlton, GA. Linn, MO. Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK. Koochiching, MN. Alamosa, CO. Karnes, TX. Lincoln, WA. And Dukes, MA. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Delaware, Colorado, Wyoming, Michigan, and Maine.There have been 589,890 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Alabama 32. Illinois 25. California 22. Texas 19. New York 18. Maryland 17. Florida and Kentucky 11. South Carolina 10. And Pennsylvania and Virginia 9. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 68.1%, Hawaii at 64.4%, and Massachusetts at 64.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 33.2%, Louisiana at 34.9%, and Alabama at 35.4%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 38.9%.Globally, cases were down 25% and deaths down 6% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since May... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 21st, 2021.The CDC apparently believes relaxing mask requirements will encourage people who haven’t already done so to get vaccinated. Some experts in human behavior say not likely. The gamble is people will be nervous in a maskless world if they aren't vaccinated. The risk is that those people never felt at risk and all this will do is cause unvaccinated people to go unmasked.With 52 more COVID-19 fatalities added to the statewide total yesterday, Texas has crossed over the 50,000 deaths mark. The number per day had been decreasing into the 30s earlier this month before beginning a steady climb back into the 50s. Still, the state is now reporting about the same number of deaths in a week they were reporting every day in January.Panama temporarily closed its border with Colombia starting yesterday to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and tighten security. Panama said Colombia's decision to reopen borders "puts at risk the significant progress" Panama has made. So no entry by land, sea, or river routes.Some good news for the AstraZeneca vaccine. Public Health England says real-life data suggests it’s providing more protection than was expected from clinical trials. After a second dose, the chance of falling ill is reduced by around 89% as opposed to the previously believed 70-75%.Other states are taking notice of the success of Ohio’s vaccine lottery and are doing similar things. New Yorkers 18 and older who get their first dose between May 24 and 28 at some locations across the state will get a free lottery scratch-off ticket for a $5 million lottery. Maryland also announced its $2 million VaxCash Promotion, which will divide that amount among 41 residents who get vaccinated. Daily drawings will reward some of the newly vaccinated with $40,000 starting May 25 until July 4. And on the Fourth, one person will win $400,000.In the United States cases were down 36%, deaths are down 14%, and hospitalizations are down 21% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,871,914 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK. Livingston, MO. Charlton, GA. Lincoln, WA. Koochiching, MN. McKenzie, ND. Alamosa, CO. Karnes, TX. And Linn, MO. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Alabama, Delaware, Colorado, Michigan, and Maine.There have been 588,531 deaths in the U.S. recorded as Covid-related with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 82. Florida 70. California 53. Illinois 49. Texas 44. Pennsylvania 38. Alabama 32. Colorado 26. New Jersey 23. And Georgia 22. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 65.8%, Massachusetts at 63.1%, and Hawaii at 63%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 32.9%, Louisiana at 34.4%, and Alabama at 34.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 37.8%.Globally, cases were down 29% and deaths down 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are now 15,877,844 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 259,269. Brazil 83,367. Argentina 35,884. The United States 30,214. And Colombia 16,086.  There have now been 3,425,648 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 20th, 2021.Yesterday, India reported more coronavirus deaths in a single day than any other country at any time during the pandemic, setting a global record. Over the last month, India’s COVID-19 fatalities have jumped six-fold. And the infections continue to spread, mostly through the countryside where most people live, and health care is limited.Restrictions are returning across Asia. Mongolia has seen its death toll soar, while Taiwan, considered a big success in fighting the virus, placed over 600,000 people in two-week medical isolation. Hong Kong and Singapore have postponed a quarantine-free travel bubble for a second time. China’s seen new cases linked to contact with people arriving from abroad. Thailand reported the highest number of deaths since the outbreak started. And the Philippines has barred public gatherings.Anthony Fauci announced yesterday the existing vaccines are effective against the highly contagious Indian variant. The variant has been reported in at least 44 countries—including the U.S.—on every continent besides Antarctica. The U.K. has had the largest number of the variant. And it’s causing Ministers to consider diluting plans for “Freedom Day” in England June 21st.EU ambassadors agreed on measures to allow fully vaccinated travelers to enter their countries. There was no precise date given but June is the goal, if not sooner. Most travelers from the US and outside of Europe have been banned from entering since March 17, 2020. The United States still has a travel ban in place on people from certain areas in Europe.We’ve told you about the Ohio lottery and it looks like there’ll be all kinds of ideas on how to get more people vaccinated. In Georgia, defendants in Hall and Dawson Counties that have to do community service as part of their sentences can cut their required hours in half just by getting vaccinated.In the United States cases were down 35%, deaths are down 12%, and hospitalizations are down 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,901,195 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Conejos, CO. Calhoun, WV. Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK. Pleasants, WV. Luce, MI. Karnes, TX. Wheeler, TX. Clay, WV. And Shelby, MO. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Alabama, Rhode Island, Colorado, Michigan, and Maine.There have been 587,843 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 59. Pennsylvania 56. Florida 51. California 41. Oklahoma 40. Georgia 37. Illinois 34. New Jersey and Michigan 32. And North Carolina 27. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 65.5%, Massachusetts at 62.8%, and Hawaii at 62.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 32.8%, Louisiana at 34.3%, and Alabama at 34.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 37.5%.Globally, cases were down 20% and deaths down 7% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are now 17,548,506 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 276,261. Brazil 79,706. Argentina 39,652. The United States 28,541. And France 19,050.  There have now been 3,412,920 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 19th, 2021. The hope is that we’re seeing the last of the worst. India’s total cases since the pandemic began crossed over 25 million yesterday and there was a record 4,329 deaths in 24 hours. Argentina also had a record one-day coronavirus death toll of 745 as it deals with a second wave of infections. However, in India, there’s at least a trend of falling cases. Lots of buzz after Dr. Anthony Fauci’s appearance on Good Morning America, on which he admitted he’s been wearing a mask for the sake of public perception. The comment was notable due to public exchanges with Sen. Rand Paul in which he’s emphatically denied he was masking for any reason other than his own health. When Paul asked if his mask wearing after vaccination is theater, Fauci replied that variants were a good reason for a mask. It should be easier to work with the Pfizer vaccine now. The European Medicines Agency said it can be stored at refrigerated temperature much longer than previously recommended. The EMA extended the approved storage period for an unopened thawed vial when kept in a fridge between 2C and 8C from five days to one month. A new and very large survey shows that Covid-19 vaccines tend to alleviate the symptoms of long Covid. Some have been experiencing symptoms for months on end ranging from chronic fatigue to organ damage. 56.7% of respondents experienced an overall improvement in symptoms, with 24.6% unchanged and 18.7% reporting deterioration of their symptoms. In general, those who got mRNA vaccines like Phizer and Moderna reported more improvements. The New York Yankee breakthrough mystery continues. Nine fully vaccinated members of the organization have tested positive. Symptoms have been mild or absent. But because a cluster of breakthrough cases like this is such a rarity, the CDC is looking into it. All nine got the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. In the United States cases were down 35%, deaths are down 12%, and hospitalizations are down 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,920,288 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Armstrong, TX. Chattahoochee, GA. Conejos, CO. Adams, MS. Luce, MI. Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK. Calhoun, WV. Karnes, TX. Alamosa, CO. And Shelby, MO. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Alabama, Rhode Island, Colorado, Michigan, and Maine. There have been 587,199 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 97. Michigan 87. New York 43. Texas 42. Pennsylvania 36. Illinois 29. Georgia 26. California and Ohio 25. And New Jersey 23. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 65.2%, Massachusetts at 62.6%, and Hawaii at 62.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 32.5%, Louisiana at 34%, and Alabama at 34.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 37.3%. Globally, cases were down 24% and deaths down 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are now 17,656,808 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 267,174. Brazil 74,379. Argentina 35,543. The United States 27,506. And France 17,210. There have now been 3,399,045 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 18th, 2021.If you’re in India, you have to wonder what else could happen. A powerful cyclone in the Arabian Sea was expected to make landfall on India’s west coast last night. Authorities tried to evacuate hundreds of thousands of people, but what the threat also did was suspend desperately needed vaccinations in one state. Flooding and crowded evacuation shelters could also make matters worse.Conditions in India have definitely spread to neighboring Nepal. Cases have been exploding there over the last few weeks and the director-general of the World Health Organization is worried about what’s unfolding there. He said Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Egypt are also dealing with spikes in cases and hospitalizations.The Indian variant is spreading in England to such an extent, the government's review of social distancing rules there may be delayed. The plan was to lift all restrictions on June 21st but the Prime Minister now says that cannot be definitive.While New York is prepared to lift mask mandates according to CDC guidance, California is saying not so fast. They won’t do it until June 15 so the public and businesses have time to prepare, and so health officials can make sure cases stay low.If you’re one of the ones who laughed at Ohio’s million-dollar lottery to encourage citizens to get vaccinated, you may have laughed a little early. More than 25,400 shots were administered Friday, two days after the program was announced. That made it the highest vaccination day in three weeks. Vaccinations for those age 30 to 74 jumped 6% after weeks of steady decline.In the United States cases were down 33%, deaths are down 13%, and hospitalizations are down 18% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 5,944,597 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Armstrong, TX. Chattahoochee, GA. Conejos, CO. Adams, MS. Calhoun, WV. Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK. Luce, MI. Alamosa, CO. Baraga, MI. And Gilmer, WV. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Alabama, Rhode Island, Colorado, Michigan, and Maine.There have been 586,350 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 54. New York 35. North Carolina 29. Texas 28. Michigan 22. Connecticut 21. Pennsylvania 20. Massachusetts 19. California 18. And New Jersey 14. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 64.6%, Massachusetts at 62.3%, and Hawaii at 60.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 32.5%, Louisiana at 34%, and Alabama at 34.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 37%.Globally, cases were down 23% and deaths down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are now under 18 million active cases around the world, at 17,876,754.The five countries with the most new cases: India 263,045. Brazil 33,631. Argentina 28,680. The United States 25,030. And Iran 14,319.  There have now been 3,385,075 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 17th, 2021.The shocking news out of India persists. Not only have bodies been found floating in the Ganges River, more have been found buried in shallow sand graves on its banks. Police with portable loudspeakers are asking people not to dispose of bodies this way. The good news, after hitting record highs for weeks, new cases are said to be stabilizing.A study out of India shows only 0.06% of people who’ve been vaccinated for Covid need hospitalization afterward. The study was done to evaluate the frequency of breakthrough infection. The conclusion was such occurrences are a small percentage and those are typically minor infections that don’t lead to severe disease.The arguing and confusion around the CDC’s change in masking policies continues, but 18 states have announced plans to drop public mask mandates either immediately or in weeks. Others like California, New York, and New Jersey are taking a wait and see approach. What the CDC released are just guidelines, which leaves a patchwork of Governors, Mayors, and heads of corporations trying to figure out what to do.Also scrambling and trying to figure out what to do, schools. Children are being tested in some cities like Baltimore, New York, and Chicago. In other places, school districts are reluctant to even check students showing symptoms. One positive test could mean quarantines and back to virtual learning. It doesn’t help that health officials seem all over the board about the need to test and the different approaches to testing for students and staff. Now, as a public service, we’re going to teach you how to hug. The BBC compiled the experts’ opinions on how to return to doing so safely. 1. Be selective, trying to stick to small numbers of close family. 2. Make it quick. 3. No face-to-face contact, you may even want to mask up for your hug. 4. Hug outside. And 5. Get tested to make sure you’re safe to hug. In the United States cases were down 33%, deaths are down 13%, and hospitalizations are down 17% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now under 6 million active cases in the United States at 5,979,784. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Armstrong, TX. Chattahoochee, GA. Conejos, CO. Adams, MS. Calhoun, WV. Ketchikan Gateway Borough, AK. Luce, MI. Alamosa, CO. Baraga, MI. And Gilmer, WV. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Colorado, Michigan, Alabama, and Maine.There have been 585,967 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Pennsylvania 67. New York 35. California 33. Illinois 25. Florida 20. South Carolina 15. Virginia and Minnesota 10. And New Jersey and Indiana 9. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 64.1%, Massachusetts at 61.9%, and Hawaii at 60.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 32.5%, Louisiana at 34%, and Alabama at 34.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 36.7%Globally, cases were down 22% and deaths down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are now 18,161,470 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 281,860. Brazil 36,862. The United States 17,834. Argentina 16,350. And Colombia 15,093.  There have now been 3,374,748 deaths reported... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 14th, 2021.The CDC now says fully vaccinated people can stop wearing masks outdoors, even in crowds, and in most indoor settings like stores. The guidance still calls for masks in crowded indoor settings like buses, planes, hospitals, and prisons. Now comes the confusion. How do businesses know for sure who is and isn’t vaccinated? And what about state and municipal mask mandates that are still in effect?So why the confidence to ditch the masks? The number of new infections in the U.S. has dropped precipitously in recent weeks. An analysis of all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico found a correlation between the rate of vaccination and the decline in new infections. But some health officials say this is too soon given the variants and the fact only 1 in 3 Americans is fully vaccinated. They point out case numbers are down at least partially because testing has plummeted. In the U.K., Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s anxiety is only going up. The India variant has become more prevalent just ahead of the next big easing of restrictions. The British government and scientists have said new infections may go up in coming weeks, but they aren’t sure that will lead to hospitalizations and deaths.Japan certainly doesn’t appear to be heading toward herd immunity. Only 1% of its citizens are vaccinated. This just two months before the Olympic Games are supposed to start in Tokyo. Cases are rising sharply in Japan. The country weathered the pandemic pretty well and some say that’s given it a dangerous overconfidence. When it comes to health officials, Americans have trust issues. A poll from the Harvard School of Public Health showed only 52% of Americans have a great deal of trust in the CDC. Other health agencies did even worse — only 37% trust in the National Institutes of Health or the FDA. Even state health departments have lost trust over the pandemic.  In the United States cases were down 31%, deaths are down 11%, and hospitalizations are down 17% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,360,358 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Adams, MS. Calhoun, WV. Conejos, kow-NEI-hows CO. Shelby, MO. Luce, MI. Reeves, TX. Chattahoochee, GA. Guadalupe, NM. Karnes, TX. And Gilmer, WV. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Colorado, Maine, and Minnesota.There have been 584,475 deaths in United States recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 118. California 103. Texas 55. Florida 49. New York 42. Pennsylvania 37. Illinois 31. Virginia 27. New Jersey 25. And North Carolina 23. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 62.8%, Massachusetts at 61.1%, and Hawaii at 59.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 32.3%, Louisiana at 33.7%, and Alabama at 33.9%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 35.4%Globally, cases were down 17% and deaths down 10% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are now 18,843,936 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 343,288. Brazil 75,141. The United States 39,825. Argentina 26,531. And France 19,461.  There have now been 3,340,130 deaths reported as... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 13th, 2021.COVID-19 deaths in the United States have fallen to an average of around 600 per day. That’s the lowest level in 10 months. Over half of states are in the single digits and there are days when a state’s number is zero. But at the same time, the Red Cross is warning cases are exploding across Asia and the Pacific. Over 5.9 million new infections in the past two weeks.An independent review ordered by the World Health Organization found there was a range of problems in addressing the pandemic, from slow initial reaction to "weak links at every point in preparedness and response." Its overall conclusion was COVID-19 was "a preventable disaster.” The panel said circumstances have not improved over the past year and the system is still unfit to prevent another highly infectious pathogen.A new study has found two current vaccines are effective against the new India variant. A team of researchers from Emory, Stanford, and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases found the variant to be almost 7 times more resistant to antibodies. But individuals who got either the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine were still able to neutralize it.It’s still an issue though. How do you get people to take the vaccine? Research in the UK showed that emphasizing the personal benefits might be the way to go. Those strongly hesitant seem to feel getting COVID-19 isn’t that big a deal, but the vaccines for it pose great personal risk. Researchers say the best counterargument appears to be the possible devastating effects of having long Covid.Or you could try what the Governor of Ohio is doing. Kids 12 to 17 who get the vaccine will be put into a lottery to get a full four-year scholarship to a state university, including tuition, room and board, and books. Adults who get at least one dose will go into a million-dollar cash lottery, with winners chosen once a week for five weeks. The money is coming from existing federal coronavirus relief funds.In the United States cases were down 30%, deaths are down 10%, and hospitalizations are down 17% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,368,122 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Adams, MS. Calhoun, WV. Gilmer, WV. Conejos, kow-NEI-hows CO. Luce, MI. Jackson, LA. Guadalupe, NM. Reeves, TX. Chattahoochee, GA. And Charlton, GA.The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Colorado, Minnesota, and Maine.There have been 583,647 deaths in United States recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 109. Texas 70. Pennsylvania 64. New York 54. Florida 48. Oklahoma 46. New Jersey and Georgia 41. North Carolina 29. And Illinois 23. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 62.3%, Massachusetts at 60.8%, and Hawaii at 59.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 32.2%, Louisiana at 33.6%, and Alabama at 33.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 35.1%Globally, cases were down 16% and deaths down 9% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are now 18,872,080 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 362,406. Brazil 76,638. The United States 35,816. Argentina 24,475. And France 21,498.  There... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 12th, 2021.The New York Times reported the CDC was relying on a faulty study in declaring a 10% chance of the transmission of Covid-19 outdoors in support of outdoor mask mandates. The CDC now says it’s more like 1% or less. Critics are now asking how a key component of the U.S. Covid response was not only wrong, but never questioned.In a related story Dr. Kavita Patel said she thinks the CDC’s credibility is eroding, and that’s bad because we need workplace and school guidance. Patel served in the Obama Administration as Director of Policy for Public Engagement. She said in the absence of guidance, we’re making it up, which puts more people at risk. Dr. Amesh Adalja, infectious disease specialist at Johns Hopkins also said the CDC is not being nearly as aggressive as it should be with guidance.CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky says the pandemic is more severe than ever worldwide, and India’s a reminder the virus can quickly outstrip efforts to contain it. She reiterated double-layered masking, physical distancing, and not traveling must all be continued. The Chief Science Officer at HHS also said he’s expecting a significant number of cases and deaths this summer.A horrifying scene in India. Scores of dead bodies have been found floating down the Ganges River in eastern India. Health officials working through the night Monday retrieved 71 bodies. More corpses were found floating in the river Tuesday, washing up in a neighboring state. It’s believed bodies are going in the water because villages are running out of wood to cremate them. If you’re worried the vaccine will hurt you, this woman in Italy might be an inspiration. She accidentally got six doses of the Pfizer vaccine all at once, with no serious side effects. The nurse thought the vial had already undergone dilution, but it hadn’t. All six doses were still in it. It’s not the first time either. In April, 77 inmates at the Iowa State Penitentiary all got up to six times the normal dose due to human error.In the United States cases were down 29%, deaths are down 10%, and hospitalizations are down 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,395,031 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Gilmer, WV. Adams, MS. Chattahoochee, GA. Calhoun, WV. Conejos, kow-NEI-hows CO. Guadalupe, NM. Baraga, MI. Jackson, LA. Charlton, GA. And Moore, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Colorado, Maine, and Minnesota.There have been 582,791 deaths in U.S. recorded as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 102. Florida 64. New York and Texas 55. Pennsylvania 52. California 41. New Jersey 31. Illinois 27. And Georgia and Kentucky 23. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 61.9%, Massachusetts at 60.6%, and Hawaii at 58.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 32%, Louisiana at 33.5%. and Alabama at 33.8%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 34.8%Globally, cases were down 14% and deaths down 7% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are now under 19 million active cases around the world at 18,934,804.The five countries with the most new cases: India 348,499. Brazil 71,018. The United States 34,904. Argentina 25,976. And... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 11th, 2021.The FDA expanded use of Pfizer's vaccine yesterday to kids as young as 12. The hope is that this will get adolescents protected before heading back to school in the fall. Canada was the first to expand use to 12 and up. Interestingly, researchers found kids developed higher levels of antibodies than young adults.The India variant continues to work its way around the world. Argentina's Health Ministry confirmed its first cases of both that variant and the South Africa variant. They were found in three people returning from Europe. An expert warns spread of the Indian variant in the UK is “not looking good at all,” especially in London and the North West. And health authorities in Thailand confirmed their first cases of the Indian variant in a woman and her 4-year-old son who came in from Pakistan.We’ve reported before that Seychelles has vaccinated more of its population than any other country. But now active cases have more than doubled in the week ending May 7. 2,486 people, and 37% of them are fully vaccinated. Cases are also surging in the Maldives.Dr. Anthony Fauci agrees that the actual number of people killed by COVID-19 is probably much higher than the official numbers say. In fact, he said he has no doubt of it. A recent study counted nearly double what was recorded by federal health officials.Hugs are coming back. In less than a week, people in England will be able to give friends and family a hug for the first time since restrictions were put in place in March of 2020. It’s part of the next round of lockdown easing. It is stressed though that people exercise common sense. In the United States cases were down 29%, deaths are down 8%, and hospitalizations are down 15% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,411,702 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Moore, TX. Chattahoochee, GA. Calhoun, WV. Gilmer, WV. Conejos, CO. Baraga, MI. Charlton, GA. Luce, MI. Adams, MS. And Quay NM. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Colorado, Maine, and Minnesota.Oddly, as of this writing, Johns Hopkins, our source for cumulative COVID deaths, changed its website and no longer reports a cumulative COVID death number for the United States. It has also lowered the number of cumulative global fatalities by one third. We will be looking for a new source for that information.  With a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 54. New York 43. Michigan 34. California and Tennessee 19. Connecticut 17. Massachusetts and Washington 16. Illinois 13. And Colorado 12.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 61.3%, Massachusetts at 60.1%, and Hawaii at 58.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 32%, Louisiana at 33.4%, and Alabama at 33.7%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 34.4%Globally, cases were down 12% and deaths down 5% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are 19,019,250 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 329,517. The United States 30,152. Brazil 29,240. Iran 18,408. And Argentina 17,381.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 10th, 2021.Calls for India's prime minister to implement a nationwide shutdown continue to increase. COVID-19 is spreading there so fast the country Saturday reported more than 4,000 dead, a new single-day high. This is generating bodies faster than they can be buried or cremated. Vaccines and treatments, including oxygen, remain in short supply.But why is this happening? The World Health Organization says the variant first identified in India has mutations that increase transmission. That, combined with India going back to massive gatherings, and a lack of vaccinations gives us our current picture. But while the variant may be more resistant to antibodies, vaccines, if taken, would slow transmission and make cases milder.They aren’t discussing which vaccine to take in Chad. There are no vaccines of any kind there at all. Not even for healthcare workers. The World Health Organization says nearly a dozen countries are in the same boat. Many of these are in Africa, which accounts for only 1% of the vaccines administered worldwide.In the U.S., an uptick of infections in Florida post spring break. There have been more than 10,000 variant cases reported Wednesday throughout the state according to the Florida Department of Health. Only 1% of all cases in Florida undergo genetic coding testing that reveals if there are variant infections.In Spain, it looks like spring break. Impromptu street celebrations erupted across the country at midnight Saturday when a six-month-long national state of emergency to contain the pandemic ended and nighttime curfews were lifted. There are still restrictions, but those were being ignored. Police had to manage multiple scenes of unmasked dancing and group singing.In the United States cases were down 30%, deaths are down 6%, and hospitalizations are down 13% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,441,257 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Kentucky. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Moore, TX. Reeves, TX. Baraga, MI. Chattahoochee, GA. Gilmer, WV. Luce, MI. Conejos, kow-NEI-hows CO. Charlton, GA. Calhoun, WV. And Park, MT. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Minnesota, Colorado, and Maine.There have been 581,752 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 32. New York and Illinois 31. California 28. Texas 21. Indiana 13. Pennsylvania and New Jersey 11. Virginia 10. And Maryland and Kentucky 8. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Vermont at 59.9%, Massachusetts at 59.7%, and Hawaii at 58.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 32%, Louisiana at 33.2%, and Alabama at 33.6%. The percentage of the U.S. that’s been fully vaccinated is 33.9%Globally, cases were down 12% and deaths down 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are 19,165,409 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 366,499. Brazil 34,162. The United States 22,200. Colombia 17,222. And Turkey 15,191.  There have now been 3,288,638 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 7th, 2021.In India, a new single-day record in new coronavirus cases combined with the number of vaccinations actually going down. 3,980 deaths as vaccine shortages continue and states compete with each other to get available doses. Only about 3% of the population is fully vaccinated and only 9.2% have gotten at least one dose.Bad as the numbers have been, a new study says they were probably much, much worse. As in twice as many deaths from COVID-19 around the world than has been reported. The University of Washington's Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation estimates the U.S. alone undercounted deaths by over 300,000, while the death tolls in India and Mexico are nearly three times the official numbers. In Russia, the estimate is five times the official number. And in Egypt, there’ve been nearly 13 COVID deaths for every one that was counted.Speaking of Russia, authorities there have approved a single-dose version of the Sputnik V vaccine. It’s called Sputnik Light, and it has yet to complete its own advanced testing to ensure safety and effectiveness. Russia started human trials of Sputnik Light in January, and the studies are still ongoing. It’s intended to be exported, not used in Russia.  Pfizer wants the Olympic games in Tokyo to go on, so they’re donating doses of vaccine to vaccinate athletes and their delegations. Initial doses should go out at the end of May with the goal being to make sure second doses are given ahead of arrivals in Japan.If you don’t want a COVID test, you can go hang out with some bees. Dutch researchers have trained bees, which have an incredible sense of smell, to identify which samples are infected with COVID-19. They did this by giving sugar water to them as a reward when they were shown infected samples. So now, when they see an infection, they literally stick out their tongues, yes bees have tongues, indicating a positive result.In the United States cases were down 27%, deaths are down 4%, and hospitalizations are down 13% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,669,775 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Florida. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Moore, TX. Gilmer, WV. Grand, UT. Baraga, MI. Itasca, MN. Luce, MI. Wirt, WV. White Pine, NV. And Klamath, OR. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Minnesota, Colorado, and Maine.There have been 580,054 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 123. California 101. Florida 67. Texas 65. Pennsylvania 51. Oklahoma 44. Illinois 40. New York and New Jersey 33. And South Carolina and Colorado 22. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 61.2%, Vermont at 58.4%, and Massachusetts at 58%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 31.6%, Louisiana at 32.4%. and Alabama at 33%.Globally, cases were down 9% and deaths up 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are 19,369,554 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 414,433. Brazil 72,559. The United States 47,819. Argentina 24,086. And Turkey 22,388.  There have now been 3,251,434 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 6th, 2021.In the U.S., the realization is setting in…“herd immunity” won’t be achieved this year, or maybe even next year. Vaccine hesitancy is just too high, so new variants will likely emerge and spread. Daily vaccinations have slowed enormously as the story of Covid-19 is shaping up to be, development of the vaccines was an unprecedented achievement, distribution of the vaccines a success, but the communication plan encouraging people to get the vaccine was a catastrophic failure. A case of the variant causing thousands of deaths and crushing health systems in India has been discovered in San Diego. The infected person is a woman in her 20s, who returned from India in late March and was hospitalized in early April. The variant has also been found in Michigan and Iowa. As feared, the variant in India is beginning to cross borders. Nepal is being overwhelmed by a COVID-19 surge. 57 times as many cases as a month ago, with 44% of tests now coming back positive. The Red Cross said, "What’s happening in India right now is a horrifying preview of Nepal’s future if we can’t contain this latest surge that’s claiming more lives by the minute.”The U.S. government is supporting a controversial proposal to waive intellectual property rights for vaccines. Meaning companies like Pfizer and Moderna would not be able to exclusively use their patents. It’s thought releasing these private companies’ information to the world will increase global supplies.With so many in quarantine and lockdowns for so long, some thought there might be a pandemic baby boom. The opposite has happened. The U.S. birth rate fell 4% last year, the largest single-year decrease in almost 50 years. The drop was seen in every major race and ethnicity, and nearly every age group.In the United States cases were down 26%, deaths are down 3%, and hospitalizations are down 12% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,692,782 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Florida. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Fluvana, VA. Gilmer, WV. Grand, UT. Baraga, MI. Chattahoochee, GA. Powell, KY. Wirt, WV. Luce, MI. And White Pine, NV. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Minnesota, Colorado, and Pennsylvania.There have been 579,265 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 93. Pennsylvania 63. Texas 58. New York 52. New Jersey 49. California 47. Michigan 45. Illinois 33. Georgia 32. And North Carolina and Virginia 21. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 61%, Vermont at 58%, and Massachusetts at 57.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 31.4%, Louisiana at 32.4%. and Alabama at 32.8%.Globally, cases were down 7% and deaths up 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are 19,347,162 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 412,618. Brazil 75,652. The United States 46,129. Turkey 26,476. And France 26,000.  There have now been 3,237,435 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 5th, 2021.The U.S. administration announced a new goal to administer at least one dose of a vaccine to 70% of American adults by the Fourth of July. They also want 160 million adults fully vaccinated by then so more restrictions can be lifted. The July Fourth goal would mean about 100 million shots in the next 60 days — a slowdown in pace as it’s assumed those eager to get the shot have already done so.And it won’t be hard to find those vaccines. Mobile vaccination pop-ups are showing up at sporting event, community centers, museums, public transit stations, airports, churches, businesses and neighborhood events. The aim is "to proactively bring the vaccine to where people already are."Keeping an eye on India, it looks like infections and deaths continue to mount with alarming speed. One expert warned the next few weeks will be “horrible.” Many are dying because of shortages of bottled oxygen and hospital beds or because they couldn’t get a COVID-19 test.Singapore is tightening curbs on social gatherings and enacting stricter border measures after recording locally acquired cases of variants, including a more contagious strain first detected in India. After reporting very few local infections for months, numbers have increased in the last week. The are not ruling out a return to a partial lockdown.The CDC issued new guidelines for cruise ships, saying they could start sailing again by mid-July if they adhere to regulations. Cruise lines can skip testing passengers and staff if they can attest 98% of the crew and 95% of passengers are fully vaccinated. Ships have been docked and the industry frozen since March 14, 2020. In the United States cases were down 26%, deaths are down 2%, and hospitalizations are down 11% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,715,861 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Florida. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Fluvana, VA. Gilmer, WV. Grand, UT. Baraga, MI. Luce, MI. Powell, KY. White Pine, NV. Otsego, MI. And Klamath, OR. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Colorado, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania.There have been 578,407 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 133. Florida 92. New York 86. California 66. Texas 53. Pennsylvania 52. New Jersey 42. Maryland 27. Illinois 21. And Virginia and New Mexico 16. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 60.8%, Massachusetts at 57.5%, and Vermont at 57.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 31.1%, Louisiana at 32.4%, and Alabama at 32.7%.Globally, cases were down 4% and deaths up 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are 19,304,738 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 382,691. Brazil 69,378. The United States 42,354. Turkey 28,997. And Argentina 26,238.  There have now been 3,223,436 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 4th, 2021.The FDA is reportedly expected to authorize Pfizer's vaccine for youngsters ages 12 to 15 by next week. That means shots before starting the next school year. In late March, Pfizer released preliminary results from a study of volunteers in that age group, showing no cases of COVID-19 among the fully vaccinated vs. 18 among those given placebos.Russia last year took credit for being first in the world to authorize a vaccine, but vaccination efforts there are lagging. Shots are available almost everywhere to anyone 18 or older but only 8% have received at least one shot. A poll in February showed only 30% of people were willing to get Sputnik V, one of three domestically produced vaccines available. So what countries are performing best in terms of total vaccinations per capita? US News & World Report compiled a list, and no one is even close to Israel at 62.4 doses per 100 people. Next comes the U.K. at 50.8. And then there’s a cluster of the next most successful countries which includes, the U.S., Chile, Hungary, and Bahrain. Apparently, the U.S. has vaccines to waste. Kaiser Health News reports CVS and Walgreens are responsible for most wasted vaccine doses, which total more than 180,000. Reasons included broken supplies, storage errors, and leftover doses that expired due to no-show appointments. The news is getting better for travel. EU officials proposed easing restrictions on visiting its 27 nations since vaccination campaigns are gathering speed across the continent. Right now, travelers from very few countries with low infection rates can get in, but they’re looking to expand that to all those fully vaccinated with EU-authorized shots. In the United States cases were down 27%, deaths are down 8%, and hospitalizations are down 7% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,729,654 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Florida. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Fluvana, VA. Donley, TX. Grand, UT. Gilmer, WV. Huron, MI. Chattahoochee, GA. Ferry, WA. Gratiot, MI. And Muskegon, MI. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Colorado, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania.There have been 577,492 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: New York 66. California 42. North Carolina 40. Florida 38. Illinois 31. Michigan 29. Colorado 25. Massachusetts 18. And New Jersey and Virginia 16. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 60.7%, Massachusetts at 57.3%, and Vermont at 56.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 31.1%, Louisiana at 32.2%. and Alabama at 32.7%.Globally, cases were down 1% and deaths up 8% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are 19,377,511 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 355,828. The United States 39,767. Brazil 36,524. Turkey 24,733. And Iran 20,732.  There have now been 3,209,657 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for May 3rd, 2021.The CDC says the United States has now fully vaccinated more than 100 million people. And health experts say the only thing that could threaten a rather positive outlook is the spread of variants. Nearly 40% of adults have been inoculated, but to achieve herd immunity, 70-85% of the population would need to be vaccinated.Soon to be included in those getting vaccinated, children. Pfizer and Moderna are currently studying vaccine safety and effectiveness in kids as young as 6 months old. Children under 18 make up 85 million people in the U.S., which is about 20% of the entire population.A new study in Israel shows the Pfizer vaccine is effective for autoimmune disease patients. The original Pfizer studies didn’t include this group. Autoimmune diseases are characterized by an immune system that attacks the body’s normal components. It was thought such patients might not respond to the vaccine because they’re immuno-suppressed.Despite falling case numbers and deaths, the TSA will continue requiring travelers wear face masks at airports, aboard commercial flights and on all other public transportation until Sept. 13th. One of the surest signs of a return to normalcy, the reopening of Disneyland in Anaheim, California after being closed 13 months. There were so many cases in California just 4 months ago patients were being treated in outdoor tents. The park is open under limited capacity and only to state residents for now.In the United States cases were down 27%, deaths are down 8%, and hospitalizations are down 7% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,765,579 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Florida. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Fluvana, VA. Donley, TX. Grand, UT. Gilmer, WV. Huron, MI. Chattahoochee, GA. Ferry, WA. Gratiot, MI. And Muskegon, MI. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Colorado, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania.There have been 577,043 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 61. New York 45. Florida 30. Illinois 28. Pennsylvania 20. Texas 18. Virginia and South Carolina 14. And New Jersey and Maryland 12. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 60.5%, Massachusetts at 56.7%, and Vermont at 55.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 31.1%, Louisiana at 32.3%. and Alabama at 32.6%.Globally, cases were up 7% and deaths up 13% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are 19,473,935 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 370,059. The United States 30,701. Brazil 28,935. Turkey 25,980. And Iran 18,698.  There have now been 3,198,397 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 30th, 2021.Once the epicenter of the pandemic in the United States, New York City will "fully reopen" July 1. The Mayor said, "We are ready for stores to open, for businesses to open.” Theaters will also be operating at "full strength." It’s his belief vaccines are capable of quashing any outbreaks from new variants. They aren’t as sure about that in the U.K. Things are going very well there but now variants first detected in India have become the second most dominant in just weeks. Public Health England said there’s no evidence of widespread transmission or that these variants cause more severe disease or render the vaccines any less effective. Other scientists are alarmed at how fast these cases appear to be increasing even with social-distancing restrictions still in place. An unwelcome surprise in Vietnam. It’s detected its first locally transmitted cases in 35 days. Authorities have ordered tighter surveillance to prevent a new outbreak. That country’s strict quarantine and tracking helped it successfully contain three outbreaks so far and has one of the best records in Asia.How many companies in the U.S. will require employees be vaccinated? A survey from the Rockefeller Foundation says most of them. 63% plan on requiring proof. As for consequences, 42% say the employee will not be allowed to return to the workplace, and 35% said discipline including termination is on the table.The first study of NHS staff in England shows fully up to one fourth of healthcare workers there are still reluctant to get the vaccines. This is especially true among black and south Asian staffers, workers under 30, pregnant women, and those who already had Covid. In the United States cases were down 27%, deaths are down 7%, and hospitalizations are down 3% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,813,287 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Florida. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Huron, MI. Grant, OR. Muskegon, MI. Ferry, WA. Donley, TX. Hemphill, TX. Pecos, TX. Bent, CO. And Fluvanna, VA. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Minnesota, Colorado, and Delaware.There have been 575,070 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 116. California 86. Texas and New York 68. Georgia 60. Florida 52. Pennsylvania 51. Illinois 41. And Arizona, South Carolina, and Colorado 23. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 59.8%, Massachusetts at 54.7%, and Connecticut at 53.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 30.7%, Alabama at 32%, and Louisiana at 32.1%.Globally, cases were up 4% and deaths up 7% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are 19,428,181 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 386,888. Brazil 69,079. The United States 59,269. Turkey 37,674. And France 26,538.  There have now been 3,161,637 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 29th, 2021.An EU agency says Russia is spreading fake news that the West and EU are trying to undermine their Sputnik V vaccine and trying to sow distrust in the European Medicines Agency. That agency regulates which vaccines can be put on the EU market. The European Commission so far doesn't intend to order Sputnik V, but Germany may talk to Russia about an individual order and Hungary’s already using it. We’ve heard about the situation in India, but next door, in Pakistan, that country recorded more than 200 COVID-19 deaths in a day for the first time since the start of the pandemic. They are now considering stricter lockdowns because Pakistan has very limited health resources, with ventilators and oxygen in short supply.Research is now underway at Oxford to come up with blood tests that will determine not only whether a vaccine will work but for how long. Volunteers who survived COVID are being deliberately exposed to gauge levels of protection against reinfection. They’re trying to learn how to tell if a new vaccine would provide protection without having to test it on tens of thousands of people.A new study shows why you should not skip your second vaccine dose. In a "real-world" study, the effectiveness of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines in keeping people out of the hospital was 94% for those fully vaccinated, but only 64% for those with one dose. As we reported here before, 8% of Americans are not returning for their second shot.And from the utter silliness department, a conspiracy has been making the rounds that singer Mariah Carey faked getting her vaccine injection in a video. In the video, the needle cannot be seen coming out of her arm. The reason is the person giving the shot used a retractable needle. These are sometimes used to help protect health care workers by allowing an extra push on the plunger to retract the needle up into the syringe.In the United States cases were down 26%, deaths are down 7%, and hospitalizations are down 2% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,810,611 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Florida. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Pecos, TX. Huron, MI. Hemphill, TX. Muskegon, MI. Grant, OR. Coos, NH. Ferry, WA. Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK. And Coosa, AL. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Colorado, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania.There have been 574,326 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 75. Florida 74. Oklahoma 72. Georgia 71. Pennsylvania 65. California 62. New Jersey 49. Illinois, Michigan, and South Carolina 37. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 59.7%, Massachusetts at 54.1%, and Connecticut at 53.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 30.6%, Alabama at 31.8%, and Louisiana at 32%.Globally, cases were up 5% and deaths up 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are 19,316,514 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 379,459. Brazil 77,266. The United States 56,604. Turkey 40,444. And France 31,539.  There have now been 3,146,284 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 28th, 2021.India has reported more than 17.6 million cases since the pandemic began last year. But experts fear the actual number could be 30x higher. That means more than half a billion cases. Health workers and scientists have long warned infections and deaths are greatly underreported for a variety of reasons. Some predictions have the death toll peaking at more than 13,000 a day — more than 4x the current daily death toll.As expected, the CDC eased guidelines in the U.S. on wearing masks outdoors. Fully vaccinated Americans don't need to cover their faces anymore unless they are in a big crowd of strangers. The unvaccinated can also go outside without masks in some situations. It was essentially an endorsement what many Americans were already doing.Brazil's health regulator rejected several states’ requests to import almost 30 million doses of Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine out of safety concerns, and the Russian government is not happy. The agency said there were faults in all clinical studies of the vaccine’s development, as well as absent or insufficient data.Pfizer’s CEO said that before the end of this year, they may release a pill that can treat early-stage COVID-19 infections at home. It would work by inhibiting the enzyme the virus needs to infiltrate human cells. Of course, it all depends on clinical trials and the FDA.West Virginia’s trying to climb up the ranks of our top vaccinating states report by paying young people to get the vaccine. $100 savings bond for anyone age 16 to 35 who gets vaccinated. The Governor said, "I'm trying to come up with a way that's truly going to motivate them to get over the hump." Even those who’ve already gotten the shots will get paid retroactively.In the United States cases were down 24%, deaths are down 5%, and hospitalizations are flat over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,817,794 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Florida. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Chattahoochee, GA. Grant, OR. Caroline, VA. Pecos, TX. Hemphill, TX. Ferry, WA. Coos, NH. Muskegon, MI. And Huron, MI. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and Colorado. There have been 573,355 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 117. New York 116. Pennsylvania 77. New Jersey 61. Texas 60. Florida 58. Illinois 24. California and North Carolina 23. And Georgia, Virginia, and Maryland 18. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 59.5%, Massachusetts at 53.6%, and Connecticut at 53.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 30.2%, Alabama at 31.6%, and Louisiana at 31.9%.Globally, cases were up 6% and deaths down 2% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are 19,197,940 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 362,902. Brazil 76,085. The United States 52,046. Turkey 43,301. And France 30,317.  There have now been 3,131,405 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 27th, 2021.The President of the United States is expected to announce changes today to the CDC’s guidance and recommendations regarding outdoor masks. Dr. Anthony Fauci indicated over the weekend the changes will apply to what vaccinated people can do, with some changes also even for unvaccinated people.The U.S. will start sharing its stock of AstraZeneca vaccines with the world, but first it has to clear America’s FDA. That could mean as many as 60 million doses being exported in the coming months. The U.S. has been under mounting pressure to give the vaccine it purchased to countries like India.It doesn’t look like Israel needs help. The country leads the race to vaccinate citizens before variants can take hold by far, and it’s working. There were zero Covid-19 deaths last Thursday and new infections are plummeting. Citizens no longer have to wear masks outdoors, they can dine at indoor restaurants, attend concerts, and go to school in person. Italy’s trying to get there. There was a gradual reopening yesterday, but few people seem happy about it. Some say it’s too cautious, others say it’s too hasty. The 10pm curfew remains, preventing theater reopenings. But some virologists say the virus does not negotiate and the tentative reopening could usher in a new surge.Health insurers seem ready to roll back consumer-friendly changes that were made early in the pandemic. Many had been waiving all deductibles, copayments and other costs for insured patients who got COVID-19. Now, a number of insurers are quietly ending those waivers. So, COVID patients can no longer assume they won’t have to pay deductibles, copayments and coinsurance. In the United States cases were down 16%, deaths are down 3%, and hospitalizations were up 5% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,812,645 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Florida. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Caroline, VA. Chattahoochee, GA. Grant, OR. Pecos, TX. Dimmit, TX. Hemphill, TX. Coos, NH. Huron, MI. Ferry, WA. And Coosa, AL. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, Colorado, New Jersey, and Delaware. There have been 572,652 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 62. New York 38. Michigan and North Carolina 37. Georgia 34. California 22. Washington 21. And New Jersey, Colorado, and Connecticut 19. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 59.4%, Massachusetts at 53.1%, and Connecticut at 52.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 30.2%, Alabama at 31.5%, and Louisiana at 31.8%.Globally, cases were up 13% and deaths up 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are 19,245,933 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 319,435. The United States 47,456. Turkey 37,312. Brazil 29,669. And Iran 21,026.  There have now been 3,116,582 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 26th, 2021.India set a world record for the fourth day in a row for daily infections. Also new daily death tolls for nine consecutive days. The United States said it will help India in its time of need, but there were no specifics given. It’s anticipated that will include shipments of drug treatments, rapid diagnostic testing kits, ventilators, PPE, and oxygen.A nightmare in Baghdad, Iraq. At least 82 people were killed when a fire swept through a hospital where Covid-19 patients were being treated. Many of them were bedridden and on ventilators. 110 additional people were injured. The fire was reportedly caused by an exploding oxygen tank.Why would someone get the first dose of vaccine, but then refuse to get the second? According to the CDC, that’s what millions of Americans are doing. Nearly 8% have missed their follow-up appointments. As for possible reasons, some say they don’t want the potential side effects, some think one dose will be enough, and others blame lack of supply…even though that’s a problem that is just no longer present.A slight ray of hope for the international travel industry. The President of the European Commission said vaccinated Americans will be allowed into EU countries starting this summer. What’s unclear is how proof of vaccination will be handled. Some member countries like Greece were already opening up to vaccinated tourists on their own. The President of NASCAR says it’s considering requiring competitors be vaccinated in order to compete. Some drivers, including current NASCAR Cup Series champion Chase Elliott said, that decision is a personal choice. NASCAR was one of the first sports to resume competition after the shutdown, did not do any Covid-19 testing, and reported no widespread outbreaks.In the United States cases were down 16%, deaths are down 3%, and hospitalizations were up 5% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,858,406 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Virginia, New York, Maryland, and Florida. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Caroline, VA. Chattahoochee, GA. Grant, OR. Pecos, TX. Dimmit, TX. Hemphill, TX. Coos, NH. Huron, MI. Ferry, WA. And Coosa, AL. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, New Jersey, Delaware, and Minnesota. There have been 572,199 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: New York 43. California 38. Florida 34. Illinois 25. Texas, Virginia, and South Carolina 16. New Jersey, Maryland, and Kentucky 13. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 59.2%, Massachusetts at 52.3%, and Connecticut at 52.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 30.2%, Alabama at 31.5%, and Louisiana at 31.7%.Globally, cases were up 15% and deaths up 4% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 23. There are now over 19 million active cases around the world, at 19,339,968.The five countries with the most new cases: India 354,531. Turkey 38,553. The United States 34,736. Brazil 32,572. And France 24,465.  There have now been 3,105,958 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 23rd, 2021. Vaccines are now available to all US adults. But vaccinations are declining. Counties across the country have begun turning down shipments of doses. 34% of U.S. adults have been fully vaccinated. A recent Kaiser Family Foundation survey showed 20% said they definitely wouldn’t get a vaccine or only get one if it was required. An additional 17% are in "wait and see" mode.  The CDC is said to be thinking about changing its recommendations about mask usage outdoors. Many states are already moving ahead with looser restrictions. Some health experts say there's very little transmission outdoors, except in particularly crowded circumstances. In fact, researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, found less than 10% of transmission occurs outdoors. Disturbing news out of Michigan; there’s been a record-breaking spike in child hospitalizations, hitting a high of 70 this week. That’s twice the number during the worst days of the wave in November. As of April 17, the 10-19 age group had Michigan's highest rate of new cases. For kids under 10, the average was 400 new cases per day. On the other end of the spectrum, nationwide, hospitalizations among older Americans have plunged more than 70% since the beginning of the year. Deaths have dropped as well. Since seniors were given priority with the vaccines, it offers dramatic evidence vaccinations are working. The EU is fighting mad when it comes to the AstraZeneca vaccine. It’s asked member countries to back legal action against the company by the end of the week for allegedly violating its contractual obligations to supply vaccine. Opponents of that move worry this will only further undermine confidence in the vaccine. In the United States cases were down 7%, deaths are down 2%, and hospitalizations were up 7% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,848,237 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Maryland, and Florida.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Caroline, VA. Grant, OR. Coos, NH. St. Clair, MI. Newaygo, MI. Ferry, WA. Grayson, VA. Cheboygan, MI. And Macomb, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, New Jersey, Delaware, and Pennsylvania.  There have been 570,312 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 121. California 92. Florida 86. Texas and New York 68. Pennsylvania 56. Georgia 46. Illinois 38. New Jersey 30. And North Carolina 25.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 58.8%, Connecticut at 50.3%, and Maine and Massachusetts at 50%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 29.7%, Alabama at 30.7%, and Louisiana at 31.2%. Globally, cases were up 18% and deaths up 6% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 21.  There are now 18,928,051 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 332,503. The United States 67,070. Turkey 54,791. Brazil 49,344. And France 34,318.  There have now been 3,068,314 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 22nd, 2021. The FDA said that factory in Baltimore hired to help make Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine was dirty, didn’t follow proper procedures and had poorly trained staff. That is likely what resulted in contamination of material going into a batch of shots. That batch, enough to make about 15 million doses, had to be thrown out. The World Health Organization said infections have been rising at an alarming rate for eight straight weeks as the virus sweeps easily through several parts of the world. More than 5.2 million new cases last week - the most in one week since the pandemic began. Deaths also increased for the fifth week. A new directive is requiring hospitals in Ontario, Canada to stop all non-emergency surgeries and non-urgent procedures immediately. This as COVID-19 patients continue to fill hospitals and put the healthcare system under strain amid a third coronavirus wave. The province is also giving hospitals the authority to transfer patients to other hospitals without their consent. A growing number of a certain group feels like the pandemic is being blown out of proportion. But it might not be a group you’d expect. It’s educators. Education Week reports nearly one in three surveyed said it’s not a real threat to schools. 15% also said no social distancing at all is necessary. COVID-19 has reportedly claimed the life of a former member of the legendary Four Seasons music group. Joe Long is actually the second member of the group to die from COVID. Tommy DeVito lost his life last year. Frankie Valli announced Long’s death on his Facebook page. In the United States cases were flat, deaths are down 8%, and hospitalizations were up 9% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,841,287 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Maryland, and Florida.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Grant, OR. St. Clair, MI. Karnes, TX. Newaygo, MI. Sanilac, MI. Tuscola, MI. Macomb, MI. Mason, MI. And Oceana, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Michigan, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Delaware, and Pennsylvania.  There have been 569,385 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 95. Florida 83. Texas 78. New Jersey 65. Pennsylvania 59. Michigan 44. North Carolina 43. New York 40. Georgia 31. And Illinois 29.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 58.6%, Connecticut at 49.8%, and Maine at 49.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 29.5%, Alabama at 30.5%, and Louisiana at 31.1%. Globally, cases were up 23% and deaths up 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since April 18.  There are now 18,754,007 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 315,802. Brazil 71,910. The United States 65,057. Turkey 61,967. And France 34,968.  There have now been 3,055,587 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 21st, 2021. In India’s capital, patients struggle to breathe for up to 10 hours as ambulances try to find an open bed at one of the six hospitals there. For others, there’s no available ambulance at all. Nearly all ventilators are in use as India recorded over 250,000 new infections and over 1,700 deaths in 24 hours. The U.K. announced a travel ban on most visitors from India and Canada is considering the same. The European Union says yes, it found a “possible link” between Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine and blood clots, but the benefits outweigh the risks. They recommended a warning be added to the label, which the drug company said it will do.  The U.S. administration has issued guidelines for federal agencies to test workers for COVID-19, confirming these offices can mandate employee testing. The CDC said, federal employees who have a testing requirement to enter their workplace and refuse can face “consequences.” It did not specify what those consequences might be. It did say the Americans with Disabilities Act allows for it and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has deemed it acceptable.  There’s a kind of tourism to the United States that’s doing quite well, vaccine tourism by wealthy people from Latin America. Politicians, TV personalities, business executives and a soccer team charter planes, book commercial flights, buy bus tickets and rent cars to get the vaccine in U.S. due to lack of supply at home. Some say they don’t feel guilty because it’s starting to appear Americans don’t seem to want the vaccines.  Today’s celebrity infection is rock star Ted Nugent, notable for dismissing COVID-19 just four months ago as a “scamming pandemic” and committing to never taking the vaccine. Now the 72-year-old reported to fans he thought he was dying and can hardly crawl out of bed. In the United States cases were up 4%, deaths are down 5%, and hospitalizations were up 10% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,848,479 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Grant, OR. Chattahoochee, GA. Karnes, TX. St. Clair, MI. Alcona, MI. Sanilac, MI. Crosby, TX. Mason, MI. And Macomb, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Michigan, New Jersey, Delaware, and Pennsylvania.  There have been 568,449 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 90. California 84. New York 82. Pennsylvania 74. Florida 64. Texas 58. New Jersey 45. Arizona 40. Virginia 30. And North Carolina 19.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 58.4%, Maine at 49.5%, and Connecticut at 49.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 29.4%, Alabama at 30.3%, and Louisiana at 31%. Globally, cases were up 19% and deaths up 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 16.  There are now 18,588,852 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 294,290. Brazil 73,172. Turkey 61,028. The United States 60,317. And France 43,098.  There have now been 3,040,790 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 20th, 2021.In India, New Delhi imposed a weeklong lockdown to prevent the total collapse of that city's health system. Ambulances roam the streets looking for a hospital with empty beds, patients line up at medical facilities, and ambulances each carrying half a dozen bodies idle outside crematoriums. The virus is spreading at a rate faster than at any other time there.At a White House Covid-19 task force briefing, CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky reported the current 7-day case average is up to over 67,440 per day and the 7-day average of daily deaths is up to about 695 deaths per day. She’s confident the vaccines are effective, but said they take time to kick in, around 2-6 weeks, so prevention measures must stay in place.Oregon is receptive to that message. Health officials there are considering mandating masks and social distancing in all businesses indefinitely. Many businesses and residents are fuming, with 60,000 signing a petition against the measure. But proponents say it’s necessary because state law requires a "permanent" rule to keep current restrictions from expiring.The United States remains committed to the idea that banning travel is a major part of ending Covid-19. The State Department said it’s going to boost its “Do Not Travel” guidance to about 80% of countries around the world. It’ll be a significant increase in the number of countries at the Level 4: Do Not Travel designation.As an indicator we’re at the stage where everyone is free to get a vaccine, a defense official says prisoners at Guantanamo can now start getting them. They actually were at the relative top of the list until many expressed outrage that they were prioritized for eligibility over many demographics of Americans. There are actually only 40 men being held there.In the United States cases were up 4%, deaths are down 5%, and hospitalizations were up 10% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,850,038 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Grant, OR. Chattahoochee, GA. Karnes, TX. St. Clair, MI. Alcona, MI. Sanilac, MI. Crosby, TX. Mason, MI. And Macomb, MI. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Michigan, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.  There have been 567,690 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 62. New York 44. Florida 33. California and North Carolina 31. Georgia 26. Illinois 21. Massachusetts and Connecticut 19. And New Jersey 18. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 58.3%, Connecticut at 48.9%, and Maine at 48.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 29.4%, Alabama at 30.2%, and Louisiana at 30.9%.Globally, cases were up 21% and deaths up 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5. There are now 18,453,745 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 256,947. Turkey 55,149. The United States 51,650. Brazil 34,642. And Iran 24,346.  There have now been 3,027,353 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 19th, 2021.The global death toll from the coronavirus topped 3 million people Saturday. This as vaccination campaign have experienced setbacks and infections rage in countries like Brazil, India, and France. And the actual number of deaths is believed to be much higher because some governments have concealed statistics.After initial concerns about supply and a rush to get appointments and vaccines, desire to get the vaccine appears to have plateaued. Appointments are getting skipped and officials are struggling to get appointments filled…even in very hard hit states like Michigan. Mass vaccination sites have started closing. Pharmacies in one part of Louisiana say vaccine demand has "completely fallen off." One cause for reluctance making its way around the Internet rumor mill is that the vaccine somehow affects fertility. OB/GYN’s are getting questions about it and most point out that all the major medical societies, including the Society for Fertility, have come out and said there is no evidence to support fertility problems with the vaccines. Not only that, research has shown the presence of antibodies in umbilical cord blood and breast milk that get passed on to the baby.  Chile is not having a lot of luck with the Chinese Sinovac vaccine. That country has mounted one of the world’s most rapid vaccination campaigns using the Chinese vaccine, but health authorities are scrambling to deal with a surge of new infections and deaths. Half the adult population has already gotten at least one dose and officials say the level of protection after just one dose is being overestimated and restrictions eased too soon.Otters at The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta have tested positive for Covid-19. They’re expected to make a full recovery, but it does point to how easy it is to be exposed to the coronavirus. These are animals traditionally kept in an enclosure and away from the public. However, they began sneezing and have symptoms like runny noses, tiredness, and coughing.In the United States cases were up 5%, deaths are down 8%, and hospitalizations were up 11% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since April 14.  There are now 6,862,164 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Grant, OR. Chattahoochee, GA. Karnes, TX. St. Clair, MI. Sanilac, MI. Crosby, TX. Tuscola, MI. Ogemaw, MI. And Huron, MI. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Michigan, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.  There have been 567,217 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 46. New York 38. Texas 37. Florida 34. Pennsylvania 25. Virginia and Maryland 17. South Carolina and Minnesota 15. And Illinois 10. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 58%, Maine at 48.5%, and Connecticut at 48.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 28.9%, Alabama at 30.1%, and Louisiana at 30.8%.Globally, cases were up 20% and deaths up 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5. There are now 18,434,835 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 275,306. Turkey 55,802. The United States 43,174. Brazil 42,937. And France 29,344.  There have now been 3,017,412 deaths... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 16th, 2021.The World Health Organization says Europe has surpassed 1 million deaths from COVID-19 and the situation remains “serious.” About 1.6 million new cases are reported each week. The good news, if it can be called that, is the proportion of deaths for people over 80 has dropped nearly 30%, a sign the vaccines will work in the 53-nation region. A hold on use of Johnson & Johnson’s Covid-19 vaccine in the U.S. could stretch out for several weeks, according to the head of an advisory panel that will make the recommendation on whether shots should resume. Critics say the hold is unnecessarily creating more vaccine hesitancy, which is the last thing that’s needed right now.Israel’s Health Minister said yesterday that starting Sunday, Israelis will no longer be required to wear masks outside. They’ll still be required in closed public spaces. That country has carried out the world’s fastest per capita vaccination drive and over half the population is fully inoculated. The result, daily new cases and serious cases have dropped to levels not seen in months.A very different story in Brazil as hospitals run dangerously short of sedatives and other crucial medications. The average daily death toll has risen above 3,000, the highest in the world. Brazil's health crisis is being described as a "humanitarian catastrophe" by Doctors Without Borders. They are also alarmed at the number of young babies lost to the coronavirus, an estimated 1,300.If you think it’s hard getting people to take one or two vaccination shots, try three. The CEO of Pfizer said people are likely to need a third dose within a year of getting fully vaccinated. After that, shots may be needed annually, like the flu shot. Right now, they think protection lasts anywhere from six months to a year.  In the United States cases were up 11%, deaths are down 19%, and hospitalizations were up 9% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since April 5.  There are now 6,874,166 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Crosby, TX. Grant, OR. Lamb, TX. Hutchinson, TX. Hockley, TX. St. Clair, MI. Huron, MI. Childress, TX. And Knox, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Michigan, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Minnesota, and New York.  There have been 565,283 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 123. California 88. Texas 80. Florida 71. New York 63. Georgia 62. New Jersey 47. Pennsylvania 43. North Carolina 34. And Illinois 31. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 53.9%, Maine at 45.9%, and Connecticut at 45.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 28.4%, Alabama at 29.1%, and Louisiana at 30.1%.Globally, cases were up 27% and deaths up 19% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5. That 7-day number is now very close to surpassing the all-time highest number of the pandemic which occurred January 11.  There are now 17,915,800 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: India 216,850. Brazil 80,529. The United States 74,479. Turkey 61,400. And France 38,045.  There have now been 2,984,199 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 15th, 2021. The halt on Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine remains for now. U.S. health advisors told the government yesterday they need more evidence to decide if a handful of unusual blood clots were linked to the shot — and if so, how big the risk is. There have been six cases out of more than 7 million inoculations in the U.S.  Denmark became the first country to stop using AstraZeneca’s vaccine altogether over similar potential links to rare blood clotting. Problem is, the new plan includes use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, whose rollout in Europe has been delayed. The answer, in case you’ve been wondering is yes, the CDC is studying those who are getting COVID-19 after being fully immunized. It’s called vaccine breakthrough. Dr. Saad Omer, a vaccine researcher at Yale, says this happens with a vaccine against any disease, it’s expected, and there’s no need to freak out. People are flying again, and airlines are starting to fill those middle seats again and that may not be good. A new CDC/Kansas State study says leaving them open was working, reducing the risk of infection by 23% to 57%. Only Delta is still blocking middle seats and that will end May 1. Would it comfort you to know that Professor Snape is working on potions to prevent COVID-19? Well, he is. But it’s not the one from Harry Potter’s Hogwart’s. There’s a real Professor Snape, his name is Matthew, at Oxford. He’s a professor of vaccinology and he’s trying to boost protections against the coronavirus by mixing vaccines in different ways. And yes, he’s heard every joke there is.  In the United States cases were up 8%, deaths are down 27%, and hospitalizations were up 9% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since April 5.  There are now 6,874,970 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Crosby, TX. Lamb, TX. Huron, MI. Hutchinson, TX. St. Clair, MI. Carson, TX. Hockley, TX. Cochran, TX. And Floyd, TX. Most of these Texas counties, by the way are located in the panhandle. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Michigan, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Minnesota, and New York.   There have been 564,388 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 178. New York 83. Texas 71. New Jersey 61. Pennsylvania 53. Georgia 52. Florida and Illinois 39. Michigan 37. And Oklahoma 28.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 53.3%, Maine at 45.2%, and New Mexico at 45.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 28.1%, Alabama at 28.7%, and Louisiana at 29.9%. Globally, cases were up 25% and deaths up 25% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now 24,232,351 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 199,569. The United States 78,439. Brazil 75,998. Turkey 62,797. And France 43,505.  There have now been 2,971,181 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 14th, 2021. A very bad day for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The U.S. recommended a “pause” in its use to investigate rare incidents of blood clotting. That upended vaccine programs across the U.S and prompted other countries across Europe, plus Australia, and South Africa to forego usage at least for now. It can’t help but set back the global vaccination effort. For instance, Europe was set to get hundreds of thousands of Johnson & Johnson doses because vaccinations there have been hampered by shortages, logistics, and blood clot concerns in the AstraZeneca vaccine. Those who’ve already gotten the J&J vaccine should contact their doctor if they experience severe headache, abdominal or leg pain or shortness of breath within three weeks. The World Health Organization said the trajectory of the pandemic is now “growing exponentially,” with more than 4.4 million new cases reported over the last week. In some countries new cases per week are more than eight times higher than a year ago. In some good news, new trial data shows Moderna’s vaccine was more than 90% effective at protecting against Covid and more than 95% effective against severe disease up to six months after the second dose. Pfizer said earlier this month its vaccine was also shown to be highly effective six months after the second dose. What will things look like after the pandemic? U.S. intelligence took that into consideration in its annual assessment of worldwide threats. The lingering effects of the pandemic are expected to contribute over the next year to “humanitarian and economic crises, political unrest, and geopolitical competition.” The recovery is expected to strain governments and societies. Add to the list of things only vaccinated people can do, going to a Buffalo Bills game. It was announced yesterday fans attending Bills games at Highmark Stadium must have proof of vaccination, as they open capacity back up to 100%. In the United States cases were up 6%, deaths are down 27%, and hospitalizations were up 10% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since April 5.  There are now 6,867,195 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. St. Clair, MI. Huron, MI. Knox, TX. Otsego, MI. Sanilac, MI. Galax, VA. Carson, TX. Tuscola, MI. And Gladwin, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Michigan, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Minnesota, and New York.   There have been 563,440 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.81%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Michigan 81. Florida 78. Pennsylvania 66. Texas 60. California 54. New Jersey 50. New York 48. Georgia 25. Ohio 24. And Mississippi 23.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 52.3%, New Mexico at 45%, and Connecticut at 44.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 27.9%, Alabama at 28.3%, and Georgia at 28.8%. Globally, cases were up 22% and deaths up 25% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now over 24 million active cases around the world, at 24,010,354. The five countries with the most new cases: India 185,248. Brazil 80,157. The United States 77,720. Turkey 59,187. And France 39,113.  There have now been 2,956,845 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 13th, 2021.Things have been exceedingly bad in India with the coronavirus spreading with record speed. But that did not stop tens of thousands of Hindu devotees from gathering yesterday. The pitcher festival runs through April and is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Hinduism. India has a seven-day rolling average of more than 130,000 new cases per day and hospitals are becoming overwhelmed.The director of the CDC said Michigan should “close things down.” The Governor is urging people to voluntarily restrict certain activities. Things are so bad there that there are calls to send in additional doses of vaccine. The director said Michigan needs to go back to where they were last spring to flatten the curve.With the focus on vaccines it shouldn’t be forgotten that treatments for COVID-19 are still a valuable part of the mix. Regeneron is seeking U.S. approval for its monoclonal antibody cocktail as a preventative treatment after it showed 72% protection against symptomatic infections and 31% reduction in risk of progressing to symptomatic COVID in the first week.Two CDC studies looked at trends in racial and ethnic disparities in hospitalizations and ER visits associated with COVID-19 last year and found the proportion of hospitalized patients was highest for Hispanic and Latino patients in all four census regions of the U.S. Researchers point to higher risk of exposure and higher risk for severe disease as contributing reasons. A survey by Consumer Reports shows Americans aren’t so eager to ditch the masks. 41% would want to hear experts say it’s safe first. Nearly one-fifth said they’ll keep wearing masks for some time into the future. In other findings, over 70% are somewhat or very confident vaccines are safe and effective. 55% like having more contactless shopping opportunities. And 44% appreciated spending more time at home.In the United States cases were up 11%, deaths are down 26%, and hospitalizations were up 10% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since April 5.  There are now 6,852,989 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Crosby, TX. Hutchinson, TX. Carson, TX. Lamb, TX. Hockley, TX. St. Clair, MI. Otsego, MI. Garza, TX. And Gray, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Michigan, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and Minnesota. There have been 562,511 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.81%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: New York 80. California 47. North Carolina 42. Florida 36. Georgia 35. New Jersey 26. Louisiana 25. Massachusetts 20. And Texas and Illinois 16. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 50.9%, New Mexico at 44.7%, and Connecticut at 43.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 27.9%, Alabama at 28.2%, and Georgia at 28.8%.Globally, cases were up 21% and deaths up 23% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.  There are 23,860,829 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 160,694. The United States 56,522. Turkey 54,562. Brazil 38,866. And Iran 23,311.  There have now been 2,944,366 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 12th, 2021.Haircuts, non-essential shopping, working out, outdoor restaurant meals, and yes, outdoor pubs…it’s all back in England as of today, as the government continues its lockdown-lift. Britain has had Europe’s worst coronavirus outbreak, with more than 127,000 confirmed deaths.The Chinese government itself is admitting their vaccine’s effectiveness is low. So low they’re thinking about mixing them together. Beijing has distributed hundreds of millions of doses abroad with effectivity as low as 50.4% according to researchers in Brazil. At 50%, a vaccine is not even considered useful. India has been rolling out the fastest vaccination effort in the world, but there’s an all-time record number of infections in that country of nearly 1.4 billion people. Vaccinations topped 100 million in just 85 days.Continued good marks for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. However, a real-world study of the vaccination program in Israel shows they’re 8 times more protective against the first form of coronavirus than the South African variant and about 2.5 times less effective on the UK variant. The good news is this degree of difference is just an approximation because so few cases are breaking through the vaccines. The tough question for employers, the military, and definitely colleges and universities…when do you require people to take the vaccine? Duke University announced it will join a growing number of others in requiring students to prove they’ve been vaccinated this fall. It’s a hot issue but it’s not new, at all. In a survey of about 100 four-year institutions, nearly all already required at least one vaccine to enroll. In the United States cases were up 11%, deaths are down 26%, and hospitalizations were up 9% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since March 30.  There are now 6,862,240 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Crosby, TX. Hutchinson, TX. Carson, TX. Lamb, TX. Hockley, TX. Otsego, MI. Garza, TX. Gray, TX. And St. Clair, MI.The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Michigan, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. There have been 562,064 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.81%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: New York 75. California 63. Texas 26. Illinois 16. Virginia 14. Minnesota 13. New Jersey 12. Maryland 11. Indiana 10. And Kentucky 9. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 48.7%, New Mexico at 43.9%, and Maine at 42.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi at 27.5%, Alabama at 28%, and Georgia at 28.8%.Globally, cases were up 19% and deaths up 22% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.  There are 23,820,453 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 169,914. Turkey 50,678. The United States 47,864. Brazil 37,537. And France 34,895.  There have now been 2,934,981 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 9th, 2021. Australia yesterday became the latest country to restrict use of the AstraZeneca vaccine. They recommend it not be given to anyone under 50 and are recommending the Pfizer vaccine be adopted for those folks. Meanwhile North Carolina stopped giving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at a mass vaccination site in Raleigh and some other clinics after at least 26 people experienced adverse reactions, including fainting. The CDC says that’s not uncommon.  Iran hit a new coronavirus infection record yesterday for the third straight day. This severe spike follows the Persian New Year holiday in which millions defied guidance about gathering and travel. The new cases push Iran's pandemic total to over 2 million.  A different story in Britain as the vaccination program there starts to break the link between infection and serious illness or death. Researchers at Imperial College London found infections dropped about 60% in March, with older people least likely to be infected from being prioritized early for vaccination. It’s a different story in Israel too as that country will be fully reopened in a month provided there’s no new sudden rise in cases. The education system is moving toward returning to normal. No word yet on if the main airport there will be fully reopening to international travel. Here’s a first. A country is asking for the vaccines it provided back. Russia wants Slovakia to return its Sputnik V vaccines because of multiple contract violations. Russia claims Slovakia’s drug regulator is trying to sabotage the vaccine with improper testing and a disinformation campaign. The Slovakians say 80% of the data they’ve asked for to assess the vaccine’s risks and benefits have not been provided. In the United States cases were up 14%, deaths are down 31%, and hospitalizations were up 6% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since March 30.  There are now 6,870,679 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. St. Clair, MI. Galax, VA. Huron, MI. Caldwell, KY. Otsego, MI. Sanilac, MI. Lake of the Woods, MN. Tuscola, MI. And Macomb, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Michigan, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and Minnesota.  There have been 560,084 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.81%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 143. Texas 98. Florida 78. Michigan 77. Georgia 69. New York 57. Illinois and Pennsylvania 38. New Jersey 34. And Arizona 32.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 43.6%, New Mexico at 41.4%, and Connecticut at 39.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Mississippi and Alabama at 26.3%, and Georgia at 27.6%. Globally, cases were up 16% and deaths up 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now over 23 million active cases around the world, at 23,289,918.  The five countries with the most new cases: India 131,893. Brazil 89,293. The United States 80,161. Turkey 55,941. And Poland 27,887.  There have now been 2,900,922 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 8th, 2021.  The head of the CDC says a more easily spread variant first identified in England is now the dominant strain in the U.S. It spread quickly across the U.K. and Ireland starting last fall and has thwarted restrictions. The CDC adds that new outbreaks have been linked to youth sports and day care centers so those activities should be curtailed or suspended.  In Brazil, a new surge is filling hospitals and morgues, as the country logged nearly 4,200 deaths Tuesday. That’s close to the peak U.S. daily death toll on January 12 even though Brazil has less than two-thirds the population. Some officials are warning of the "collapse of the health care system." In Germany, things have gotten bad enough that Chancellor Angela Merkel is supporting a “short, uniform lockdown.” The criticism is the 16 state governers cannot seem to agree on the same restrictions though ICU beds are filling up.   In Britain, modeling by University College London shows that country will achieve herd immunity next week once you take the pace of the vaccine rollout and the number of people who've already recovered from Covid into account. The actual virus was bad enough but soon we’ll start hearing more and more about the ongoing long-term consequences of this pandemic, and it has to do with the public’s mental health, a health crisis all its own. Lancet reports researchers estimate literally one third of COVID survivors are struggling with brain disease or other psychiatric disorders. It’s a cocktail of problems that includes anxiety, mood disorders, hemorrhaging, stroke, and dementia.  In the United States cases were up 19%, deaths are down 21%, and hospitalizations were up 4% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since March 30.  There are now 6,857,855 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. St. Clair, MI. Dimmit, TX. Caldwell, KY. Huron, MI. Tuscola, MI. Galax, VA. Sanilac, MI. Lake of the Woods, MN. And Otsego, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Michigan, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and Alaska.  There have been 559,086 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.81%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 108. California 101. New York 83. Georgia 67. Pennsylvania 52. New Jersey 49. Florida 44. Michigan 30. Illinois 29. And Arizona 27.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 42%, New Mexico at 41.2%, and Connecticut at 39%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 25.9%, Mississippi at 26%, and Georgia at 26.5%. Globally, cases were up 20% and deaths up 8% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now 22,981,410 active cases around the world.  The five countries with the most new cases: India 126,315. Brazil 90,973. The United States 75,183. Turkey 54,740. And Argentina 22,039.  There have now been 2,886,103 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 7th, 2021. More confusion around the AstraZeneca vaccine and blood clots. First an official of the European Medicines Agency, Marco Cavaleri, said there's a “clear” association between the two and that it’s getting harder to affirm there is no cause-and-effect relationship. The organization then came out and denied a causal connection has been established and said its findings should come out today or Thursday.The U.S. is moving up the deadline for states to make all adults in the U.S. eligible for vaccines by two weeks. The president did add though that cases are going back up and hospitalizations are no longer declining.California doesn’t appear to be worried about that. The plan is to lift most restrictions on businesses and workplaces June 15. A mask mandate will stay in effect and the hope is the state will reopen even more widely in mid-June if there’s plenty of vaccine and if hospitalizations stay stable and low.Overall, Americans seem to agree COVID is no longer anything to worry about. A Gallup poll shows only 35% are very or somewhat worried about getting COVID-19. Only 22% are very or moderately worried about access to hospitals and treatment. And only 14% worry about access to tests. Those more inclined to worry are Democrats and younger people.If young people are worried, they have an odd way of showing it. Across the United States its young people driving the latest wave of COVID-19. Dr. Anthony Fauci said, "We're seeing more young people get into serious trouble, namely severe disease, requiring hospitalization and occasionally even tragic death." From state to state, young people tired of restrictions and armed with a false sense of security even though they’ve yet to be vaccinated, are filling coronavirus wards.In the United States cases were up 20%, deaths are down 24%, and hospitalizations were up 3% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since March 30.  There are now 6,867,957 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. St. Clair, MI. Caldwell, KY. Dimmit, TX. Huron, MI. Sanilac, MI. Tuscola, MI. Otsego, MI. Macomb, MI. And Lapeer, MI. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Michigan, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut. There have been 556,506 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.81%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 94. California 87. Florida 74. Michigan 61. New Jersey 51. New York 47. Virginia 41. Pennsylvania and Tennessee 38. And Oregon 33. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Hampshire at 41.9%, New Mexico at 41.2%, and Connecticut at 38.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 25.5%, Mississippi at 25.9%, and Georgia at 26.3%.Globally, cases were up 20% and deaths up 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.  There are now 22,871,452 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 115,269. Brazil 82,869. The United States 62,283. Turkey 49,584. And Argentina 20,870.  There have now been 2,870,883 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 6th, 2021.  It’s rough in parts of Europe. Hospitals in Poland are experiencing a crush. France’s health minister is warning the number of ICU patients could match levels from a year ago. There’s an ongoing surge in Greece, but most retail stores were allowed to reopen anyway in an attempt to recover from the country’s deep recession. Citizens in many countries are angry at the EU’s strategy and at their own governments’ handling of the pandemic. Here’s where the vaccine is not going well. Haiti. It doesn’t have one single vaccine to offer its more than 11 million people. It’s slated to get a mere 756,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine through a UN program. And even that isn’t expected to arrive in May as originally expected. However, demand might be low. Some citizens will tell you the people there “don’t really believe in the coronavirus.” China reported its biggest daily jump in new cases in more than two months. But it’s one city that accounted for all of them. Ruili’s residents are under home quarantine and can’t leave the city, which has struggled to monitor its border with Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam for illegal immigration. New guidance from the CDC states cruise ships won’t require passengers or crew to get the vaccine when sailing resumes in U.S. waters. But of course, they encourage them to do so. Meanwhile Norwegian Cruise Line said it will require mandatory vaccinations for all guests and crew when it restarts trips from U.S. ports. A French TV documentary reports there are multiple high-end “clandestine restaurants” catering to Paris’ elite while everyone else is expected to adhere to restrictions. One organizer says government ministers are even among the customers. Fixed-price menus run up to $575 per person and include Champagne, truffles with foie gras, and lobster in ginger sauce. Guests don't wear masks, despite France's indoor mask requirements. In the United States cases were up 18%, deaths are down 23%, and hospitalizations were up 1% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since March 30.  There are now 6,898,848 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. St. Clair, MI. Sanilac, MI. Dimmit, TX. Huron, MI. Galax, VA. Tuscola, MI. Macomb, MI. Karnes, TX. And Lapeer, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Michigan, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut.  There have been 555,403 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.81%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 62. Massachusetts 44. North Carolina 37. Florida and Virginia 31. Michigan 23. Texas and Kentucky 22. Connecticut 19. And New Jersey 14.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 40.9%, New Hampshire at 40.4%, and Connecticut at 38.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 25.3%, Georgia at 25.7%, and Mississippi at 25.9%. Globally, cases were up 22% and deaths up 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now 22,839,831 active cases around the world.  The five countries with the most new cases: India 96,957. The United States 50,329. Turkey 42,551. Brazil 38,233. And Iran 13,890.  There have now been 2,859,357 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 5th, 2021.  The country’s medicines regulator says seven people have died from unusual blood clots after getting the AstraZeneca vaccine in the UK. Still, that’s seven out of 18 million vaccinated but nobody seems to know if this is just coincidence or a genuine side effect of the vaccine. For right now, the regulator says the benefits still outweigh any risk. And in the U.S., AstraZeneca has been stopped from using a production facility in Baltimore. It’s the same place that ruined 15 million doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. In fact, Johnson & Johnson is now taking full charge of that facility.   Researchers have found at least one case of a new coronavirus variant first detected in India in the San Francisco Bay area. Cases in India had been dropping since September but started to go back up through winter. More than 47,000 new cases were detected in a 24-hour span, including 275 deaths, in March.  England is unveiling a pilot in Southamptom for weekly Covid-19 tests. For everyone. The kits are for use at home or pretty much anywhere and will be used to both slow spread and reveal outbreaks of potentially vaccine-resistant variants. The tests use easily collected saliva and would be taken even if the citizen is not showing any symptoms.  It’s play ball tonight at Globe Life Field in Arlington as the Texas Rangers intend to reopen at full capacity for their home opener. But then after the home opener, the stadium will have special sections for fans who want to sit distanced from others.  In the United States cases were up 19%, deaths are down 22%, and hospitalizations were flat over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since March 30.  There are now 6,904,851 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. St. Clair, MI. Sanilac, MI. Dimmit, TX. Huron, MI. Tuscola, MI. Macomb, MI. Karnes, TX. Lapeer, MI. And Jackson, MN.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Michigan, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut.  There have been 555,001 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: New York 75. California 52. Virginia 42. Florida 23. Texas 20. Illinois 19. New Jersey 9. Maryland 8. Pennsylvania 7. And Georgia, Arkansas, West Virginia, and New Hampshire with 2.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 40.2%, New Hampshire at 40.1%, and Connecticut at 37.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 25.2%, Mississippi at 25.5%, and Georgia at 25.7%. Globally, cases were up 20% and deaths up 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since April 1.   There are now 22,847,017 active cases around the world.  The five countries with the most new cases: India 103,793. France 60,922. Turkey 41,998. The United States 36,983. And Brazil 31,359.  There have now been 2,852,196 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 2nd, 2021.  The World Health Organization says Europe’s immunization campaigns are “unacceptably slow” and that’s risking prolonging the pandemic. Its regional director noted that to date, only 10% of Europe’s population has gotten one dose. The European Union sets that number for its 27 nations at only 5.6%. Two more over the counter, rapid result COVID-19 tests that can be done at home are on the way in the U.S. FDA approval should vastly expand the availability of such tests even as U.S. testing numbers continue declining. The tests involve a nasal swab and a test strip with results in 10 to 20 minutes.  In Canada, Ontario is “pulling the emergency brake” as its Premier phrased it, entering a limited lockdown for 28 days Saturday. It’s just short of a stay-at-home order. It’s their third lockdown since the pandemic began. The Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses called the lockdown “unconscionable.”  A study in Britain as reported by the BBC says only 18% of people who have symptoms ask for a Covid-19 test, and only 43% with symptoms properly self-isolate. Men, younger people, those with young children, and the working class were less likely to self-isolate. It’s one of the most frustrating parts of the pandemic; hearing things from official sources then hearing that you didn’t hear what you heard. The CDC yesterday walked back controversial comments made by director Rochelle Walensky suggesting those who are vaccinated never get infected or transmit the virus to others. That goes against precautions the CDC has been urging vaccinated people to take; keep wearing masks and gather only in limited circumstances with the unvaccinated. The agency said, “Dr. Walensky spoke broadly. It is possible some people who are fully vaccinated could get COVID-19. The evidence isn’t clear whether they can spread the virus to others.” In the United States cases were up 17%, deaths are down 26%, and hospitalizations down 2% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since March 23.  There are now 6,923,637 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Kingsbury, SD. Huron, MI. St. Clair, MI. Dimmit, TX. Sanilac, MI. Pitkin, CO. Macomb, MI. Lapeer, MI. Otsego, MI. And Missaukee, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New York, Michigan, New Jersey, and Connecticut.  There have been 553,120 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 137. Texas 136. New York 82. Florida 69. Georgia 64. Michigan 55. Massachusetts 32. New Jersey 30. And Pennsylvania and South Carolina 28.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 38.1%, Connecticut at 35.4%, and South Dakota at 34.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 23.6%, Georgia at 23.7%, and Mississippi at 24.7%. Globally, cases were up 30% and deaths up 18% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now 22,434,053 active cases around the world.  The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 89,459. India 81,441. The United States 76,786. France 50,659. And Turkey 40,806.  There have now been 2,825,940 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for April 1st, 2021.  A batch of Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine failed quality standards and is unusable. The company didn’t say how many doses were lost or how this might impact future deliveries. Turns out one of the factories that makes one of the ingredients didn’t meet standards and had not yet been approved by the FDA to make part of the vaccine.  While rumors float around the Internet that there were no more deaths in the U.S. in 2020 than usual, the government reports the pandemic pushed total U.S. deaths past 3.3 million, the nation’s highest annual death toll ever. The CDC says the coronavirus alone caused about 375,000 deaths and was the third leading cause of death last year. France’s President called the variants of the coronavirus "an epidemic within the epidemic" and extended a lockdown to the entire country and closed schools through all of April. Gatherings inside and outside are banned, and no one can travel more than 6.2 miles from their homes. Hospitalizations are on track to surpass even the first deadly wave of last spring. Pfizer says its vaccine is safe and strongly protective in kids as young as 12. Their vaccine is authorized for ages 16 and older, but vaccinating all ages is seen as critical to helping schools return to normal. Researchers reported levels of antibodies even somewhat higher than that seen in young adults. Does the vaccine work? Well if it does, we’d see it first in the senior population prioritized for the vaccine. And the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living said yesterday nursing homes in the U.S. have seen a 96% decline in new cases since December 20. And COVID-related deaths declined 91%. In the United States cases were up 20%, deaths are down 23%, and hospitalizations down 2% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since March 23.  There are now 6,927,626 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dimmit, TX. Kingsbury, SD. St. Clair, MI. Huron, MI. Sanilac, MI. Lewis, MO. Otsego, MI. Pitkin, CO. Macomb, MI. And Lapeer, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New York, Michigan, New Jersey, and Connecticut.  There have been 552,038 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 149. Oklahoma 103. New York 87. Florida 84. New Jersey 75. Georgia 68. Pennsylvania 44. Illinois and Massachusetts 37. And West Virginia 36.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 37.5%, Connecticut at 34.4%, and South Dakota at 34.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 22.7%, Georgia at 23.1%, and Mississippi at 24.3%. Globally, cases were up 32% and deaths up 16% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now 22,228,160 active cases around the world.  The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 89,200. India 72,182. The United States 68,756. France 41,907. And Turkey 39,302.  There have now been 2,814,038 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 31st, 2021.  Little doubt now the U.S. is getting hit with a fourth wave of COVID-19, but those showing up in hospitals look a lot different this time. It’s people under 60 accounting for most new cases. Health experts are saying that’s actually good news, as it shows the vaccines given to seniors are working. More than 73% of people 65+ has received at least one dose of vaccine, and nearly half are fully vaccinated.  We told you yesterday about the early release of the World Health Organization’s study with China practically absolving China of any negligent role in the outbreak. Now, the U.S. and 13 other countries say that report lacked access to complete data. One of the team’s investigators has admitted China refused to provide raw data on early COVID-19 cases. A reporter in Brazil says, “We have people dying because of lack of oxygen, people are literally suffocating. There are no medications for intubation, there are no ICU beds. The situation is completely out of control.” Yesterday, Brazil registered a daily record of Covid deaths, more than 3,700. On the flip side, what is England doing right? London recorded zero daily deaths from Covid-19 for the first time in over six months. The country as a whole recorded 19 deaths. This as England's "stay at home" order was lifted Monday and restrictions were eased. In Concord, NC, a parent’s worst nightmare. An elementary school had 95 students quarantined after 17 kids tested positive in a surge of cases. The school will undergo a deep cleaning to be ready to open after spring break April 13. In the United States cases were up 18%, deaths are down 29%, and hospitalizations down 4% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since March 22.  There are now 6,946,220 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bacon, GA. Lewis, MO. Marion, MO. Dimmit, TX. Webster, NE. Hitchcock, NE. Kingsbury, SD. Shelby, MO. Big Horn, MT. And St. Clair, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, Michigan, and Connecticut.  There have been 550,952 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 110. California 101. Florida 96. New Jersey 82. New York 60. Michigan 52. Pennsylvania 33. Tennessee 28. Georgia 25. And Arizona, Virginia, and Kentucky with 23.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 37.5%, Connecticut 34.4%, and South Dakota at 34.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Alabama at 22.7%, Georgia at 23.1%, and Mississippi at 24.3%. Globally, cases were up 32% and deaths up 14% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now 22,057,591 active cases around the world.  The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 86,704. The United States 62,459. India 53,158. Turkey 37,303. And France 30,702.  There have now been 2,801,858 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 30th, 2021.  The World Health Organization and China did a study together that, according to an advance copy obtained by the Associated Press, says the virus originating from a leak at the lab in Wuhan is “extremely unlikely.” It concludes transmission happened from bats to humans through another animal, like a pangolin, mink, or cat. The U.S. government now has data from real-world usage of COVID vaccines and their effectiveness was found to be nearly as robust as it was in controlled studies. Pfizer and Moderna — highly effective at 90% after two doses. In testing, the vaccines were about 95% effective. The data also shows the vaccines are 80% effective for two weeks or more after just one dose. But the Director of the CDC apparently sees “impending doom.” Dr. Rochelle Walensky gave a dire press briefing yesterday in which she said, “I’m going to reflect on the recurring feeling I have of impending doom. Right now, I’m scared.” The country saw a 16% uptick of new cases per day over the prior week. Walensky says the trajectory of infections looks like what Europe saw a few weeks ago before experiencing significant surges. Record daily case numbers, increasing variant cases, and signs of exponential growth led British Columbia to lock down yesterday until at least April 19. This as Canada suspends use of the AstraZeneca vaccine for people under 55 due to pervasive blood clotting concerns. It has yet to get emergency use authorization in the U.S., but the U.S. government was donating the AstraZeneca vaccine to Canada and Mexico. Canada’s facing a slow vaccine rollout, with only 1.8% of its population fully vaccinated. Daily national surveys by Carnegie Mellon shows vaccine uptake has increased, but the proportion of adults reluctant to get it is unchanged. Concerns are especially high among females, Black and Hispanic adults, and those with certain health conditions. Overall vaccine hesitancy remains steady at 23%. In the United States cases were up 15%, deaths are down 29%, and hospitalizations down 6% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since March 22.  There are now 6,961,375 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bacon, GA. Lewis, MO. Marion, MO. Dimmit, TX. Webster, NE. Hitchcock, NE. Big Horn, MT. Kingsbury, SD. Shelby, MO. And Huron, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New Jersey, Michigan, New York, and Connecticut.  There have been 549,892 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: New York 122. California 97. Florida and North Carolina 57. Georgia 36. Louisiana 35. Texas 32. Pennsylvania 22. Virginia 21. And Connecticut 18.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 37.1%, South Dakota at 34%, and Connecticut at 33.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia and Alabama at 22.6%, and Mississippi at 23.7%. Globally, cases were up 30% and deaths up 12% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now 21,987,849 active cases around the world.  The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 59,707. India 56,119. Brazil 42,666. Turkey 32,404. And Poland 16,965.  There have now been 2,790,109 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 29th, 2021. Mexico has published revised figures indicating the number of coronavirus deaths is 60% higher than previously reported. More than 321,000 people are now believed to have died there. And that puts Mexico at the second highest Covid-related deaths in the world, after the US. The miscount is being blamed on a likely lack of testing. New York and New Jersey are back on top of the list of U.S. states with the highest rates of infection. New infections have gone up 37% in a little more than a month. However, neither state is experiencing anything like last spring when hospitals and morgues were overflowing. Critical care doctors in Paris say surging infections will soon overwhelm their ability to care for the sick in hospitals. And that means possibly choosing which patients will get treated and saved. A group of doctors writing an opinion piece said, “We have never known such a situation, even during the worst (terror) attacks.” New research shows the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are effective in pregnant and lactating women, who can pass protective antibodies on to their newborns. Additional research is needed to know how long those protective antibodies last in newborns. The researchers also found no evidence of more or more intense side effects in pregnant and lactating women than in the general population. If the administrator of the medical center there is to be believed, an Amish community in New Holland Borough, Pennsylvania has become 'the first in the US to achieve herd immunity to COVID-19' after 90% of their households became infected after resuming church services late last spring. Public health officials and epidemiologists are not disputing the outbreak but are very reluctant to assign anything positive to the way this herd immunity was apparently achieved. In the United States cases were up 12%, deaths are down 31%, and hospitalizations down 6% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since March 22.  There are now 6,989,393 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Virginia, Florida, and Maryland. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bacon, GA. Lewis, MO. Marion, MO. Dimmit, TX. Webster, NE. Big Horn, MT. Kingsbury, SD. Hitchcock, NE. Shelby, MO. And Huron, MI. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New Jersey, Michigan, New York, and Connecticut. There have been 549,335 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 143. New York 87. Texas 55. Florida 38. Massachusetts 29. Illinois 23. Virginia 20. South Carolina 18. Pennsylvania 14. And Utah 13. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 36.1%, South Dakota at 33.3%. And Alaska at 33.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 21.9%, Alabama at 22.4%, and Tennessee and Mississippi at 23.6%. Globally, cases were up 26% and deaths up 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.  There are now 22,018,602 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: India 68,206. Brazil 44,326. The United States 44,096. France 37,014. And Poland 29,253. There have now been 2,782,944 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 26th, 2021.  California will start vaccinating anyone 16 and over in 3 weeks, joining an ever-growing list of states that are doing so. The state expects to get 2.5 million doses a week in the first half of the month and more than 3 million a week in the second. Alaska’s already vaccinating those 16 and over. Florida will open to 18+ April 5, and Texas will start inoculating all adults next week. Hard to find any vaccination effort beating Israel’s. The country has now administered two doses of vaccine to more than half its population. Israel began easing a nationwide lockdown in late February and has seen an 85% drop in daily deaths, a 72% drop in the critically ill, and 86% fewer daily cases since mid-January. The U.K. is extending coronavirus emergency measures for six months, allowing the government to maintain the ability to restrict citizens’ everyday lives. This includes the power to ban protests, shut down businesses, restrict travel, and detain people suspected of being infected. Research shows rapid antigen tests on arrival after travel can be just as effective as a ten-day quarantine. Of course, that research was commissioned by several British airlines. Last year, Britain’s 10-day quarantine rules for arrivals from most countries hammered travel and stopped countless people from taking trips. In a sign you might have to get the vaccine or quit college, Rutgers University will require students enrolling for the 2021 fall semester to prove they’ve been vaccinated for COVID. Rutgers is believed to be the first large university in the U.S., maybe the first college of any size, to require vaccines. In the United States cases were flat, deaths are down 31%, and hospitalizations down 12% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since March 14.  There are now 7,018,080 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Virginia, and Georgia.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Webster, NE. Chattahoochee, GA. Dimmit, TX. Big Horn, MT. Bacon, GA. Huron, MI. Otsego, MI. Wexford, MI. Beaver, UT. And Sanilac, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New Jersey, Michigan, New York, and Delaware.  There have been 546,504 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 242. Texas 133. Florida 101. Georgia 91. New York 78. Michigan 54. Massachusetts 40. Pennsylvania and New Jersey 38. And Illinois 34. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 33.7%, Alaska at 31.9%, and Connecticut at 31.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 20%, Alabama at 20.8%, and Tennessee at 21.9%. Globally, cases were up 23% and deaths up 6% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now 21,570,962 active cases around the world.  The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 97,586. The United States 67,046. India 59,069. France 45,641. And Poland 34,151.  There have now been 2,753,597 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 25th, 2021.  German Chancellor Angela Merkel dropped plans for a 5-day shutdown over Easter, calling it a mistake and apologizing to citizens. The move came after a videoconference with Germany’s 16 state governors. The plan raised logistical and legal questions and was criticized for there being no public discussion of it before it emerged Tuesday. On the flipside, Belgium is reintroducing a strict lockdown in response to a surge of new infections. Schools are closing and residents will have limited access to nonessential businesses. Confirmed new cases in Belgium increased 40% over the last week and hospital admissions rose 28% after a long period of stability. Cuba will administer experimental vaccines to nearly the entire population of Havana by May in a massive study. Cuba’s in late phase trials of two of its five experimental shots, which will be Latin America’s first homegrown vaccines if testing is successful. France’s high-profile culture minister has been hospitalized for COVID-19 as the nation faces a third surge propelled by the highly contagious British variant. France’s Employment Minister, as well, was only recently released from the hospital. President Emmanuel Macron was infected months ago but was never hospitalized. In the United States, hospitalization rates in Michigan soared in March among younger people. Up 633% for those aged 30 to 39 and 800% for those 40 to 49. It was noted, however, hospitalization rates decline as vaccination rates in age groups go up.  In the United States cases were down 7%, deaths are down 40%, and hospitalizations down 13% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since March 14.  There are now 7,012,991 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Virginia, and Georgia.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Webster, NE. Chattahoochee, GA. Lyon, KY. Hitchcock, NE. Huron, MI. Bacon, GA. Big Horn, MT. Otsego, MI. Southeast Fairbanks Census Area, AK. And Sanilac, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New Jersey, Michigan, New York, and Delaware.  There have been 545,245 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 261. Texas 174. New York 154. Georgia 72. Oklahoma 62. Pennsylvania 57. Massachusetts 55. New Jersey 50. Kentucky 49. And Tennessee 45.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 33.4%, Alaska at 31.6%, and Connecticut at 30.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 19.4%, Alabama at 20.3%, and Tennessee at 21.4%. Globally, cases were up 20% and deaths up 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now 21,379,321 active cases around the world.  The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 90,564. The United States 66,538. India 53,419. France 33,389. And Poland 29,978.  There have now been 2,742,357 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 24th, 2021.  AstraZeneca cannot seem to catch a break. U.S. health officials said the recently announced results from the company’s U.S. trial may have included "outdated information.” AstraZeneca reported its vaccine provided 79% protection among adults of all ages and no serious side effects, but the Data and Safety Monitoring Board said it’s concerned that represents an incomplete view of the efficacy data. Brazil reported more than 3,000 COVID-19 deaths in one day for the first time yesterday. There are calls for the government and the new health minister to take action as the country becomes the pandemic’s global epicenter.  France will offer vaccine shots to anyone over 70 from this weekend. There’s a renewed sense of urgency as France and its EU neighbors are suffering a third wave. The head of France’s hospital federation said hospitals could face an “unprecedented shock” within 3 weeks. A reminder the virus is cruel and undiscriminating. 20 patients and staffers in the cancer ward at Duke Raleigh Hospital tested positive in a coronavirus outbreak. So far it’s been contained to one fifth floor wing. Infected patients who continue to require hospitalization have been moved to the hospital's COVID-19 unit. The travel industry is telling the U.S. government enough is enough. More than two dozen travel trade groups signed a letter that went to the White House saying it’s time for international travel restrictions to end. They want a “risk-based, data-driven roadmap” to cancel inbound international travel restrictions by May 1 and an end to mandatory quarantines but keeping the testing mandate. In the United States cases were down 8%, deaths are down 35%, and hospitalizations down 17% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since March 14.  There are now 7,040,066 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Virginia, and Georgia.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lyon, KY. Chattahoochee, GA. Huron, MI. Otsego, MI. Wexford, MI. Shawnee, KS. Southeast Fairbanks Census Area, AK. Missaukee, MI. Boone, NE. And Sanilac, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New Jersey, Michigan, New York, and Delaware.  There have been 543,798 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.83%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 198. Texas 79. New Jersey 61. Arizona 53. Florida 48. Ohio 42. Pennsylvania and Tennessee 34. Georgia 32. And New York, Massachusetts, and Mississippi 21.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 33.3%, Alaska at 31.5%, and South Dakota at 30.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 19.4%, Alabama at 19.8%, and Tennessee at 21.3%. Globally, cases were up 25% and deaths up 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now 21,223,694 active cases around the world.  The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 84,996. The United States 58,705. India 47,264. Turkey 26,182. And Italy 18,765.  There have now been 2,732,562 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 23rd, 2021.  A late-stage U.S. study shows the PR plagued AstraZeneca vaccine provided 79% efficacy against disease and 100% protection against hospitalization and death across all age groups. The study, of course, was done by AstraZeneca, but the company said its experts also identified no safety concerns including blood clotting. AstraZeneca's vaccine has yet to be given the green light in the U.S. New cases of COVID-19 in the United States rose 5% to more than 394,000 last week, the first increase after declining nine straight weeks, according to Reuters and CDC data. 30 out of 50 states reported more new infections in the week ended March 21 compared with the previous seven days, up from 19 states in the prior week. Germany extended its lockdown measures by another month and imposed several new restrictions, including largely shutting down public life over Easter. Chancellor Angela Merkel announced the measures after a lengthy video call with the country's 16 state governors. Restrictions will remain in place until April 18. Not just Germany but vaccinations across all of the EU have been less than stellar. And there are still sometimes angry comparison being made to the U.K. Critics point out the U.K. inoculated 844,285 people Saturday, which is more than the daily combined figures for France, Italy, Germany, Hungary, Romania, Portugal, Poland, Austria, Greece, the Czech Republic, Belgium and Denmark. If you need another incentive to get vaccinated, here’s a sweet one. Starting Monday and going to the end of this year, if you take your vaccination card to any Krispy Kreme in the US, you can get a free glazed doughnut. Not just once, but every day. Of course, it’s a treat, not exactly a health plan.  In the United States cases were down 7%, deaths are down 38%, and hospitalizations down 17% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since March 14.  There are now 7,175,014 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Virginia, and Georgia.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lyon, KY. Chattahoochee, GA. Southeast Fairbanks Census Area, AK. Huron, MI. Missaukee, MI. Boone, NE. Pitkin, CO. Wexford, MI. Simpson, KY. And Otsego, MI.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New Jersey, Michigan, New York, and Delaware.  There have been 542,888 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.83%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 181. Texas 79. Kentucky 61. Louisiana 42. Florida 35. New York 31. Massachusetts 27. Georgia 26. Illinois 22. And South Carolina 20.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 33%, Alaska at 31.2%, and South Dakota at 30.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 18.8%, Alabama at 19.8%, and Tennessee at 21%. Globally, cases were up 24% and deaths up 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now 21,289,277 active cases around the world.  The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 53,386. The United States 45,748. India 40,611. Turkey 22,216. And France 15,792.  There have now been 2,722,203 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 22nd, 2021.  Germany’s Health Minister says vaccines will not arrive quickly enough to prevent a third wave of the pandemic. He said, new infections are rising at a "very clearly exponential rate and even if the deliveries from EU orders come reliably, it will still take a few weeks until the risk groups are fully vaccinated." Checking in on the 5 countries doing best so far ranked by percentage of the population that’s had at least one dose; Seychelles 65.1%, Maldives 58.8%, Israel 57.1%, the U.K. at 41.4%, and Chile at 29.3%. The United States is 8th at 25.4%. An Israeli-American pharmaceutical company is getting ready to launch a Phase I clinical trial for what could be the world’s first oral COVID-19 vaccine. The technology can be used to orally administer several protein-based therapies that’d otherwise be delivered by injection. This would be valuable in terms of wide-scale distribution, especially if the vaccine eventually gets recommended annually like the flu shot. A new study has looked at how effective the Pfizer vaccine is for those who are asymptomatic and the answer is it appears to be 94% effective in preventing infections from people who have the virus, but who aren’t showing symptoms. The study also showed the Pfizer vaccine is 97% effective in preventing severe cases, hospitalizations, and death. As predicted, Spring Break has become a bit of a problem. Miami Beach Police fired pepper balls into crowds of partiers and arrested at least a dozen Saturday. Officials say they are “out of control and more than we can handle.” A state of emergency has been set as well as an 8 p.m. curfew. In the United States cases were down 9%, deaths are down 40%, and hospitalizations down 19% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since March 14.  There are now 7,212,199 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Virginia, and Georgia.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lyon, KY. Concho, TX. Southeast Fairbanks Census Area, AK. Chattahoochee, GA. Huron, MI. Missaukee, MI. Boone, NE. Wexford, MI. Pitkin, CO. And Simpson, KY.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, Michigan, and Delaware.  There have been 542,356 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.83%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 85. Texas 55. New Jersey 40. Massachusetts 35. South Carolina 30. Illinois 28. Florida 27. Indiana 20. And New York and Kentucky 18.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 32.3%, Alaska at 30.2%, and South Dakota at 29.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 18.1%, Alabama at 19.6%, and Utah at 20.3%. Globally, cases were up 21% and deaths down 1% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now 21,345,013 active cases around the world.  The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 47,774. India 47,009. The United States 39,496. France 30,581. And Poland 21,849.  There have now been 2,714,606 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 19th, 2021.  It’s back to business for Europe and the AstraZeneca vaccine. A dozen countries will resume its use after the European Medicines Agency said its initial investigation of possible side effects concluded the vaccine is “safe and effective.” However, EMA officials said their inquiry could not rule out a connection between the vaccine and unusual clotting and bleeding disorders. The latest figures show England's worst Covid hotspot saw new cases rise nearly 50% in just a week. Corby in Northamptonshire is one of 124 places in the country where infections had big jumps in the previous 7 days. Back to lockdowns in Paris. The French government imposed a month-long lockdown for Paris and parts of northern France after a faltering vaccine rollout and the spread of highly contagious variants. The French President had been trying to avoid another hit to the economy, but the country is in the grip of a third wave. India and Pakistan also reported a big jump in new infections yesterday. In India, curfews have been extended in 9 districts and other areas are seeking additional vaccine doses as schools and colleges close. In Pakistan, they had the most daily infections since early December and hospital beds are filling fast. In the U.S. it’s March Madness meets COVID madness. The NCAA said it administered more than 9,100 tests before last night's opening round of the men's basketball tournament, with only 8 total positives among Tier 1, 2 and 3 personnel. Participants include the defending champion Virginia Cavaliers, who had to withdraw from the ACC tournament because of a positive test. In the United States cases were down 15%, deaths are down 32%, and hospitalizations down 21% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since March 14.  There are now 7,282,611 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Virginia, and Georgia.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lyon, KY. Concho, TX. Chattahoochee, GA. Webster, WV. Nuckolls, NE. Southeast Fairbanks Census Area, AK. Pittsylvania, VA. Pitkin, CO. Huron, MI. And Missaukee, MI. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, Delaware, and Alabama.  There have been 539,659 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Kentucky 448. California 276. Texas 194. New York 85. Florida 83. Georgia 61. Arizona 59. Pennsylvania 44. Michigan 34. And Illinois 32. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 30.1%, Alaska at 28.8%, and South Dakota at 28.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 16.1%, Alabama at 18.2%, and Tennessee at 19%. Globally, cases were up 18% and deaths down 3% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 5.   There are now back over 21 million active cases around the world at 21,003,371 The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 87,169. The United States 62,629. India 39,643. France 34,998. And Poland 27,278.  There have now been 2,689,898 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 18th, 2021.  CNN reports new infections are again on the rise by more than 10% this week in 14 states across the U.S. That’s mostly happening in the upper Midwest, the New York area and the Mid-Atlantic. This is beginning to reverse downward trends that were happening since mid-January. According to the New York Times, in the last week, U.S. cases have averaged around 55,000 a day. Two strains first detected in California are now officially "variants of concern," according to the CDC. The variants may be about 20% more transmissible, and some treatments may be less effective against them. However, the CDC did not say that vaccines would stop working against them. The next classification after “variant of concern” is “variant of high consequence.” The EU's executive body proposed yesterday issuing certificates that would let EU residents travel freely across the 27-nation bloc by summer if they’ve been vaccinated, tested negative, or recovered from COVID-19. The plan to get travel going again will be discussed during a summit of EU leaders next week. In the U.S., it’s schools they want to get going again. The government plans to invest $10 billion in Covid-19 screening for schools. That’s the latest step to increase testing and encourage schools to reopen for in-person learning. Do you tend to walk really fast? Or are you a slow walker? British researchers say if you plod or shuffle along, you’re at higher risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19. The study found that among those whose weight was normal, slow walkers were more than twice as likely to develop severe COVID-19 and 3.75 times more likely to die of it than those who walk briskly, even obese people who walk fast. In the United States cases were down 16%, deaths are down 35%, and hospitalizations down 25% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since February 26.  There are now 7,296,874 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Virginia, and Georgia.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lyon, KY. Chattahoochee, GA. Concho, TX. Pittsylvania, VA. Webster, WV. Southeast Fairbanks Census Area, AK. Pitkin, CO. Nuckolls, NE. Huron, MI. And Missaukee, MI. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, Delaware, and Alabama.  There have been 537,992 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 272. Texas 181. New Jersey 79. Georgia 72. New York 65. Florida 58. South Carolina 52. Virginia 50. Massachusetts 44. And Pennsylvania 36.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 29.6%, Alaska at 28.2%, and South Dakota at 27.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 16.1%, Alabama at 17.8%, and Tennessee at 18.5%. Globally, cases were up 15% and deaths down 5% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 15.   There are now 20,913,921 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 90,830. The United States 62,794. France 38,501. India 35,838. And Poland 25,052.  There have now been 2,679,063 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 17th, 2021.  As still more countries suspend use of the AstraZeneca vaccines over concerns about side effects, the head of the European Medicines Agency says there’s “no indication” they’re the cause of blood clots. The agency is “firmly convinced” the benefits of the AstraZeneca shot outweigh the risks, but an evaluation is ongoing. But the need for vaccines is obviously still significant. Infectious disease experts say infections are rising exponentially in Germany. It’s in a third wave of the pandemic, reportedly driven by an easing of restrictions as more contagious variants spread. And Italy yesterday recorded its highest daily number of deaths since late January. Children have gotten their first doses of Moderna's vaccine as the company studies its safety and effectiveness for those aged 6 months to less than 12 years old. Kids in the test who get the real vaccine will get one of three possible doses, from 25 micrograms up to 100 micrograms. Moderna's current vaccine is only authorized for people 18 and older.  In the U.S., NBC News reports about 25% of the House of Representatives has not been vaccinated, even though they had access since December. But that might be truly representative because NPR polling shows 25% of Americans are skeptical of the shots. And in a related story, White House staff working in-person are now no longer being tested for Covid-19 daily. A woman in south Florida who had one dose of Moderna’s vaccine while pregnant gave birth to the first known baby born with Covid-19 antibodies “after maternal vaccination.” The claim has not been peer-reviewed but the baby girl was said to have been born 3 weeks after inoculation, and the antibodies were detected in blood from her umbilical cord.  In the United States cases were down 18%, deaths are down 32%, and hospitalizations down 27% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since February 26.  There are now 7,302,468 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Virginia, and Georgia.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lyon, KY. Chattahoochee, GA. Concho, TX. Pittsylvania, VA. Webster, WV. Southeast Fairbanks Census Area, AK. Huron, MI. Nuckolls, NE. Otsego, MI. And Missaukee, MI. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Missouri, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and Delaware.  There have been 536,871 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 150. Texas 133. New York 98. Florida 96. Oklahoma 87. Pennsylvania 83. Virginia 44. New Jersey 41. Ohio 31. And Michigan and Mississippi 26.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 29.3%, Alaska at 28.1%, and South Dakota at 27.6%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 15.9%, Alabama at 17.4%, and Tennessee at 18.5%. Globally, cases were up 11% and deaths down 7% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending down since March 14.   There are now 20,767,587 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 84,124. The United States 52,650. France 29,975. India 28,869. And Italy 20,396.  There have now been 2,669,734 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 16th, 2021.  Germany, France, and Italy are joining countries hitting pause on the AstraZeneca vaccine after several countries reported possible serious side-effects. That throws the EU’s already struggling vaccination effort into further disarray. Those countries join Denmark, Norway, Iceland, Bulgaria, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Spain. A member of the World Health Organization investigative team says wildlife farms in southern China are the most likely source of the pandemic. The WHO team found evidence these farms supplied vendors at the market in Wuhan. The Chinese government has been promoting these farms for 20 years as a way to alleviate rural poverty. Upon the outbreak, the government shut them down and told farmers how to dispose of the animals. A new CDC study shows not only have Americans been good about getting a vaccine, they’ve been good about doing it the proper way. Namely, they’re very diligent about getting their second shot. Historically, about half of patients skip subsequent doses of multi-dose regimens. But 88% who were eligible for a second dose followed through as of mid-February. And did so within the recommended time frame. And it appears those vaccines will only get better. Moderna has dosed the first participant in an early-stage study of a new vaccine candidate that could be stored and shipped in refrigerators instead of freezers. That would be good news for developing countries. They’re also evaluating it as a potential booster shot. One group that appears to have little interest in getting vaccinated, correctional officers. A poll of Florida correctional officers found only 40 of 475 respondents said they’d get it. In Massachusetts, Iowa, and California, around half declined or will decline to be immunized. In Rhode Island, more prison staff are refusing the vaccine than prisoners.  In the United States cases were down 19%, deaths are down 31%, and hospitalizations down 27% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since February 26.  There are now 7,304,022 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Virginia, and Georgia.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lyon, KY. Chattahoochee, GA. Concho, TX. Beaver, UT. Nuckolls, NE. Pittsylvania, VA. Webster, WV. Yuma, CO. Otsego, MI. And Ida, IA. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Missouri, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and Delaware.  There have been 535,596 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 166. Florida 93. New York 84. Texas 52. Georgia 47. Colorado 43. Virginia 41. Massachusetts 28. And Kentucky and Connecticut 23.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 29%, Alaska at 27.7%, and South Dakota at 27.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 15.7%, Alabama at 17.3%, and Tennessee at 18.1%. Globally, cases were up 11% and deaths down 6% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 4.   There are now 21,686,157 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 45,045. Brazil 42,107. India 24,437. Turkey 15,503. And Italy 15,267.  There have now been 2,659,623 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 15th, 2021. The story today, a resurgence of Covid across Europe. In Italy, three-quarters of the population went into a strict lockdown today. A more contagious U.K. variant and a slow vaccine rollout led to a 15% increase in cases last week. The entire country will be on lockdown for the Easter weekend to stop family gatherings. It looks like the Paris region is also headed for a new lockdown as ICU units fill up with variant victims and vaccine supplies are limited. And looking forward, the U.K.’s head of the Office for National Statistics warned they are ‘no doubt’ facing another wave of coronavirus in the Fall. England’s chief medical officer also cautioned the UK will experience another surge. But it’s not just Europe. Brazil exceeded 2,000 Covid-related deaths in one day for the first time ever. Wednesday, the country recorded 79,876 new cases, the 3rd highest number in a single day as many ICUs were at more than 90% capacity. And India reported the biggest daily increase in cases this year Sunday. The hardest hit state goes into lockdown today.In the United States, Duke University issued a quarantine order for all undergraduates effective Saturday night because of an outbreak caused by students who went to recruitment parties. The quarantine will go to at least March 21 with suspension or dismissal from school for flagrant or repeat violators.Health officials in Ireland recommended temporary suspension of the AstraZeneca vaccine after four reports of serious blood clotting after inoculations in Norway. There’s no conclusive link between the vaccine and the cases, but the suspension is being recommended as a precaution and Danish, Norwegian and Icelandic authorities are taking similar steps.You’ve heard it again and again, proper social distancing to help avoid catching Covid-19 through the air is 6 feet. But a new study out of Massachusetts showed the spread is pretty much the same in classrooms when students are just three feet apart. Reacting, Dr. Anthony Fauci said when the data shows there’s an ability to be three feet apart, the CDC will act accordingly. In the United States cases were down 19%, deaths are down 31%, and hospitalizations down 25% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since February 26.  There are now 7,365,186 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Virginia, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lyon, KY. Chattahoochee, GA. Beaver, UT. Nuckolls, NE. Pittsylvania, VA. Webster, WV. Otsego, MI. Ida, IA. Fannin, TX. And Bonneville, ID. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Missouri, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and Delaware. There have been 534,877 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.83%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 180. New York 98. Texas 79. Virginia 34. Florida and Massachusetts 31. Louisiana 23. Arkansas 19. Illinois 18. And Kentucky 16. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 27.7%, Connecticut at 27.6%, and Alaska at 26.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 14.6%, Alabama at 16.7%, and Tennessee at 17%.Globally, cases were up 11% and deaths down 9% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 4.  There are now 21,785,269 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 44,120. The United States 36,896. India... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 12th, 2021.  The Secretary-General of the United Nations is upset over vaccine nationalism and vaccine hoarding, as well as side deals with vaccine manufacturers that undermine some countries’ efforts. He called this “the greatest moral test of our times.” In Brazil, hospitals are reportedly faltering as a highly contagious variant tears through the country. One Governor said unless the pressure lets up, more and more patients will have to endure COVID-19 without a hospital bed or any hope of getting into ICU. He said, “The chance of dying without assistance is real.” The U.S. administration promised there’ll be enough vaccines for every U.S. adult by the end of May. But that depends largely on the manufacturers. Pfizer and Moderna agreed to supply 100 million doses each by the end of March and they have under three weeks left to deliver the remaining 37% of that deal. Believe it or not, there’s a country that yesterday confirmed its very first death from COVID-19. And that country is Cambodia. The deceased was a 50-year-old male who worked as a driver for a Chinese company in a coastal area. The new outbreak was traced to a foreign resident who broke quarantine in a hotel and went to a nightclub in early February.  The mental toll the pandemic has taken on Americans became clearer with a new report from the American Psychological Association. What’s called a “collective trauma" is manifesting itself in drastic weight changes and heavier drinking. In the most stunning finding, the increase in alcohol use more than doubled among parents with children in early elementary school. In the United States cases were down 16%, deaths are down 30%, and hospitalizations down 30% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since February 26.  There are now 8,584,883 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Georgia, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lyon, KY. Hartley, TX. Dallam, TX. Chattahoochee, GA. Southeast Fairbanks Census Area, AK. Beaver, UT. Caldwell, KY. Otsego, MI. Franklin City, VA. And Orleans, VT.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Missouri, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and South Carolina.  There have been 530,712 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 251. Texas 203. New York 113. Georgia 81. Florida 67. Arizona 60. Illinois 55. Virginia 53. Alabama 52. And Pennsylvania 50.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 26.1%, Connecticut at 25.8%, and Alaska at 25.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 13.4%, Alabama at 15.7%, and Tennessee at 16%. Globally, cases were up 11% and deaths down 11% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 4.   There are now 21,747,298 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 78,297. The United States 62,773. France 27,166. Italy 25,673. And India 21,668. There have now been 2,628,543 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 11th, 2021.  Researchers say a highly infectious variant of COVID-19 first discovered in Britain late last year is between 30% and 100% more deadly than previous dominant variants. The B.1.1.7 variant has since also been found in more than 100 other countries. It has 23 mutations in its genetic code and is about 40%-70% more transmissible than previous dominant variants. The EU and the UK are in quite a tiff. The European Council President said Britain banned the export of vaccines, but U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson told the House of Commons, “We have not blocked the export of a single vaccine or vaccine components.” The vaccination drive in Britain is seen as a huge success at 35% of adults while that of the EU has been a major failure at 9.5%.  If you have a family member in a nursing home, you can go hug them now if they’ve been vaccinated. The government says those residents can now get indoor visits from family as long as the visiting family member is masked. Remember all the talk about plasma treatments and how Covid-19 survivors should donate much needed plasma for those treatments? More than half a million Americans got treatments like that but after a year, there’s no proof it does any good at all. The leading researcher doing it decided to stop offering it after two very large trials found no benefit. Proponents of convalescent plasma says it works, it just has to be given early in an infection before hospitalization.  Employers can force employees to get a vaccine or they can do what Bridgestone is doing. Pay them. Its offering its 33,000 U.S. employees $100 to get the shots. In a similar behavior modification story, the University of California, Davis is telling students if you don’t go anywhere for spring break, we’ll give you $75. So far student response is said to be “awesome.”  In the United States cases were down 14%, deaths are down 20%, and hospitalizations down 33% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since February 26.  There are now 8,679,663 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Georgia, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Hartley, TX. Lyon, KY. Dallam, TX. Sherman, TX. Petersburg Borough, AK. Chattahoochee, GA. Winston, AL. Southeast Fairbanks Census Area, AK. Calhoun, AL. And Orleans, VT.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Missouri, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, and Florida.  There have been 529,213 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 267. Texas 215. New Jersey 133. New York 111. Florida 86. Arizona 78. Virginia 59. Georgia 58. Massachusetts 53. And Pennsylvania 45.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 26%, Alaska at 25.3%, and Connecticut at 25.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 13.4%, Alabama at 15.2%, and Tennessee at 15.6%. Globally, cases were up 11% and deaths down 10% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 4.   There are now 21,759,397 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 80,955. The United States 60,355. France 30,303. India 22,841. And Italy 22,409. There have now been 2,618,490 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 10th, 2021. A first-of-its-kind test for detecting whether someone was infected in the past that uses the body's T-cells was granted emergency authorization by the FDA. It would be a game changer for many with long term symptoms and for people who never got a clear answer on whether or not they were infected. T-cells can better "remember" prior infections and are thus said to be superior to other antibody tests.A study in the New England Journal of Medicine reports the Pfizer vaccine was able to neutralize a new variant spreading rapidly in Brazil. Scientists said this neutralizing ability was almost equal to the vaccine’s effect on a previous less contagious version of the virus from last year.Breaking news, not everything on Instagram is real. A non-profit that tracks online misinformation reports the platform recommended false claims about COVID-19 and vaccines. From September to November 2020, Instagram recommended 104 posts containing misinformation to 15 profiles set up by the group. These automated recommendations appeared in the "suggested posts" and "Explore" features.A Pew Research survey shows black Americans stand out from groups in the U.S. for high levels of concern about the pandemic. 81% think it’s a major threat to public health. 49% think it’s a major threat to their own health. 61% say they’ll definitely or probably get a vaccine. That compares to 69% of white adults, 70% of Hispanic adults and 91% of Asian adults. There’s one dose of vaccine you’re definitely not getting. The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History has acquired the vial containing the first dose of vaccine administered in the United States. It’s part of an exhibit to document the pandemic and “this extraordinary period we were going through.”In the United States cases were down 12%, deaths are down 18%, and hospitalizations down 34% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since February 26.  There are now 8,711,254 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Georgia, and Maryland. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dallam, TX. Lyon, KY. Hartley, TX. Cimarron, OK. Sherman, TX. Coke, TX. La Salle, TX. Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Petersburg Borough, AK. And Chattahoochee, GA. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina, and Florida. There have been 527,643 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.81%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 227. Texas 168. Oklahoma 167. Florida 162. Virginia 107. Missouri 99. New York 83. New Jersey 45. Ohio 40. And Pennsylvania 39. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, New Mexico at 25.8%, Alaska at 24.9%, and Connecticut at 24.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 13.3%, Alabama at 14.9%, and Utah at 15.1%.Globally, cases were up 9% and deaths down 8% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 4.  There are now 21,692,497 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 69,537. The United States 55,683. France 23,302. Italy 19,749. And India 16,846.  There have now been 2,609,805 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 9th, 2021.  The CDC made it official fully vaccinated Americans can get together with other vaccinated people indoors without a mask or social distancing. Vaccinated people can also get together in a single household with people considered at low risk. Think vaccinated grandparents visiting healthy grandkids. The latest world leader to test positive is Syrian President Bashar Assad. He and his wife tested positive but have mild symptoms only. He is 55, she is 45 but is a breast cancer survivor. The pandemic has been a major challenge for Syria's health care sector, which was already depleted by years of war. A probe in South Korea concluded there is no causal link between the AstraZeneca vaccine and eight deaths in recently vaccinated people. All eight were in long-term care facilities and had pre-existing health conditions. None showed an allergic reaction to the vaccine. In Canada, an association representing nursing homes says almost half of employees still haven’t filled out their consent form for vaccination. 90% of residents have received a vaccine, but the staffs, not so much. Reasons vary, but most officials think lack of information and misinformation about the vaccine is at the root of the problem.  Amsterdam's Ziggo Dome club was packed Saturday for a massive dance party. Sounds irresponsible right? But they were asked to do it, for science. It was a study of how safe such large events currently are. 1,300 people, who all tested negative first, were organized into different groups following different rules and tracked. One group was even told to sing and scream to the music to see how much spit flew out of them. In the United States cases were down 12%, deaths are down 10%, and hospitalizations down 34% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since February 26.  There are now 8,756,390 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Georgia, and Maryland.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lyon, KY. Dallam, TX. Hartley, TX. Petersburg Borough, AK. Crowley, CO. Cimarron, OK. Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Sherman, TX. La Salle, TX. And Coke, TX.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Arkansas, and South Carolina.  There have been 525,750 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 171. Virginia 87. Florida 83. Texas 69. New York 64. Georgia 42. North Carolina 33. Arkansas 24. Washington 22. And Connecticut 21.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 24.7%, New Mexico at 24.6%, and Connecticut at 24.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 13.4%, Alabama at 14.5%, and Utah at 15.1%. Globally, cases were up 7% and deaths down 8% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since March 4.   There are now 21,712,353 active cases around the world. The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 45,116. Brazil 36,136. India 15,353. Italy 13,902. And Turkey 13,215.  There have now been 2,599,596 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 8th, 2021. Dr. Anthony Fauci said it’s not widespread yet but a variant that’s shown resistance to antibody treatments and vaccines is spreading efficiently through New York City and beyond. The good news is it’s not as resistant as the quick-spreading variant from South Africa. Fauci says it remains important to vaccinate as “quickly as possible.” Oregon now has become the first state in the U.S. where a specific, new variant has been discovered. They already have 11 cases of the UK variant and a case of the Brazilian variant. But this one is new, a U.K. variant with an additional mutation. Because this case was not imported from another country, scientists believe cases could start appearing spontaneously in the U.S.Florida’s usually excited about Spring Break, this time it’s just scared. Miami Beach’s Mayor says they’re very concerned because the county still averages more than 1,000 new cases a day and variants keep cropping up. Students from more than 200 schools are expected to head to the city this season.First-stage testing of the experimental COVID-19 pill called Molnupiravir, by Merck, showed promising effectiveness. In fact, researchers said, "It may be the holy grail because it literally stopped the virus in its tracks." It would be an at-home, five-day treatment, similar to Tamiflu, and could be on the market in four to five months.It often helps vaccination efforts when admired public figures get behind it. LeBron James won’t be one of them. Asked if he’d get the vaccine once it’s made available, James said "That's a conversation my family and I will have. And probably keep to a private thing." In the United States cases were down 11%, deaths are down 5%, and hospitalizations down 29% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since February 26.  There are now 8,821,756 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Georgia, and Maryland. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dallam, TX. Lyon, KY. Hartley, TX. Crowley, CO. Petersburg Borough, AK. Cimarron, OK. Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Sherman, TX. La Salle, TX. And Coke, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, Arkansas, and South Carolina. There have been 524,987 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.82%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 99. New York 81. Virginia 77. Texas 75. Florida 63. Massachusetts 43. South Carolina 35. Louisiana 32. Pennsylvania 31. And Arkansas 22. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 24.3%, New Mexico at 24.2%, and South Dakota at 23.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 13.1%, Alabama at 14.4%, and Tennessee at 15%.Globally, cases were up 7% and deaths down 7% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending flat since February 26.  There are now 21,886,078 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 80,024. the United States 41,967. France 21,825. Italy 20,765. And India 18,691.  There have now been 2,592,768 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 5th, 2021. On this podcast, we regularly give the states who have done the most and least vaccinating. But what about which countries are getting most of their populations vaccinated? When you look at the percentage of citizens who are fully vaccinated, meaning two doses, the top three are Serbia at 7.4%, Malta at 6.6%, and Iceland at 3.8%. The bottom three are Austria at 0%, Bulgaria at .6%, and Latvia at .9%.Sixteen cases of a new variant first detected February 15th have been identified by Public Health England. It’s understood to have originated in the UK. There are now a total of four Variants Under Investigation and four Variants of Concern being tracked in the UK.Not right away, but Alabama is following the lead of Texas and Mississippi with regard to mask mandates. The state plans to lift its ban April 9. But the Governor also extended Alabama’s health emergency proclamation for Covid-19 by 60 days and urged residents to keep wearing masks even if they aren’t mandated.A government study shows too many people over 80 in England aren’t behaving. Two in five who’ve had a vaccine shot have since broken lockdown rules by meeting up with someone indoors when not permitted. They also did that within three weeks of getting a first dose, which is how long it takes for protection to build after a shot.For those of you worried about our animal friends, eight great apes at the San Diego Zoo got two doses of an experimental vaccine developed just for animals. They were given the shots while being distracted with treats and so far, no negative side effects, beyond maybe trust issues. In the United States cases were down 17%, deaths are down 8%, and hospitalizations down 29% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since February 21.  There are now 8,899,008 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Virginia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lyon, KY. Caldwell, KY. Crowley, CO. Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Petersburg Borough, AK. Cimarron, OK. Sherman, TX. Concho, TX. Johnson, WY. And La Salle, TX.The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, South Carolina, and Arkansas. There have been 520,226 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.81%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 420. Texas 289. New York and Georgia 125. Florida 117. Arizona 96. Alabama 65. Pennsylvania 52. Illinois 49. And Massachusetts 43. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 23.3%, New Mexico at 22.5%, and South Dakota at 21.5%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 12.3%, Utah at 13.2%, and Alabama at 13.4%.Globally, cases were up 1% and deaths down 19% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending flat since February 26.  There are now 21,750,682 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 74,285. the United States 68,321. France 25,279. Italy 22,865. And India 16,824.  There have now been 2,568,083 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 4th, 2021. A Census Bureau report says most small businesses in the U.S. aren’t requiring employees get tested or get a vaccine. 70% said “no" about testing, 78.4% said “no” about vaccinations. Only two sectors, health care and accommodations & food service had higher rates than the national average.The CDC is expected to release guidance this week on what it’s safe for people who’ve been fully vaccinated to do. In short, don’t look for normalcy. Even the vaccinated are advised to stay masked and stay distant. What’s new is small gatherings in the home of fully vaccinated people should be okay.Interpol says police in China and South Africa seized thousands of fake doses of vaccine, and that probably represents the “tip of the iceberg.” Authorities worldwide were warned to prepare for organized crime networks to deploy vaccine scams. Interpol is also getting reports of fake vaccine distribution targeting nursing homes.New York lifted the quarantine and testing restrictions on domestic travelers who’ve been vaccinated within 90 days of their second inoculation. Beyond 90 days, travelers will still have to quarantine and test. International travelers must continue to quarantine 10 days as do the unvaccinated. Despite the certainty that it would be, the verdict is in and the Super Bowl was not a super-spreader event. Hillsborough County, FL health officials said official events resulted in 57 total cases out of thousands of fans at those events.In the United States cases were down 19%, deaths are down 9%, and hospitalizations down 29% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since February 21.  There are now 8,921,400 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Virginia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Crowley, CO. Caldwell, KY. Cimarron, OK. Petersburg Borough, AK. Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Concho, TX. Johnson, WY. Comanche, TX. Kane, UT. And La Salle, TX.The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, South Carolina, and Arkansas. There have been 518,326 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.81%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Virginia 383. Texas 266. California 259. Georgia 145. New York 142. Florida 131. New Jersey 128. Pennsylvania 81. North Carolina 75. And Massachusetts 70. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 23%, New Mexico at 22.1%, and South Dakota at 21.1%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 12.2%, Utah at 12.7%, and Alabama at 13.2%.Globally, cases were up 1% and deaths down 18% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending flat since February 26.  There are now 21,726,718 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 74,376. the United States 66,879. France 26,788. Italy 20,884. And India 17,425.  There have now been 2,558,261 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 3rd, 2021. You would think the pandemic is completely over. Texas and Mississippi are lifting their mask mandates. And doctors and big city leaders say they’re bracing for a deadly resurgence. Business occupancy limits are also being relaxed but businesses can choose to impose their own restrictions. North Dakota, Montana, and Iowa have also lifted mask orders in recent weeks.Perhaps that optimism is coming from Washington. Messaging out of the White House is that the U.S. expects to take delivery of enough vaccine for all adults by the end of May — that’s two months earlier than anticipated.Some are quite the opposite of optimistic. Infectious disease expert Dr. Michael Osterholm told MSNBC when non-vaccinated low and middle-income countries get infected, even more new strains will be created. He said the B117 variant was “at 1 or 2%” in early January and is already 20 to 30% of all found viruses. He estimates the U.S. is two and a half weeks away from crossing 50% when a hurricane of cases will begin. An foreshadowing of that may be Italy. According to their health minister, the U.K. variant is prevalent among infected schoolchildren there and is fueling a “robust” uptick in contagion that is pervasive. Sure enough, 54% of cases in Italy involved that variant in a February measurement. This may not feel right, but in Illinois, smokers are now a priority group eligible for the vaccine. Though self-imposed, it’s still a high-risk medical condition. And the CDC says about 15.5% of Illinois adults smoke. Compare that to Oregon, which has excluded smokers from qualifying to get the vaccine.In the United States cases were down 21%, deaths are down 17%, and hospitalizations down 29% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since February 21. There are now 8,936,169 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Virginia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Crowley, CO. Caldwell, KY. La Salle, TX. Petersburg Borough, AK. Concho, TX. Calhoun, TX. Johnson, WY. Cimarron, OK. Aleutians West Census Area, AK. And Kane, UT. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, South Carolina, and Arkansas. There have been 516,476 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 293. Texas 275. Virginia 160. Florida 139. Georgia 104. New York 93. Arizona 81. Pennsylvania 68. Alabama 60. And Oklahoma 56. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 22.9%, New Mexico at 21.9%, and South Dakota at 21%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 12.1%, Utah at 12.2%, and Texas at 12.7%.Globally, cases were up 2% and deaths down 21% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since February 21.  There are now 21,623,570 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: Brazil 58,237. the United States 56,890. France 22,857. Italy 17,083. And India 15,704.  There have now been 2,547,493 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 2nd, 2021. A senior World Health Organization official said it’s “premature” and “unrealistic” to think the pandemic will be over by the end of the year. Dr. Michael Ryan said the singular focus right now should be keeping transmission low. And if that can be done, at least the hospitalizations and deaths won’t be at tragic levels by the end of 2021.California’s political leaders have reached a deal on requirements for reopening schools that could have more students back in class by the end of March. $2 billion would go to school districts and the deal would forgo conditions on collective bargaining with teachers’ unions and testing and vaccinations for staff that have been holding up an agreement.Canada's National Advisory Committee on Immunization is not recommending people 65 and older use the AstraZeneca vaccine. They say it’s because there’s not enough evidence of efficacy in that age group. But for those in other countries who have taken it, Health Canada points out there are no safety concerns. Finland declared a state of emergency yesterday because of rising infections. That clears the way to close restaurants, shut schools, and limit movement between regions. The borders were already closed. The move was in response to new coronavirus variants. Japan has asked China for a favor. Please stop doing anal swab tests on our citizens. The Japanese government says the procedure causes psychological pain. To collect test samples, well, we’ll spare you the details. But American diplomats have also reportedly experienced it and Washington also complained.In the United States cases were down 26%, deaths are down 21%, and hospitalizations down 30% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending flat since February 21. There are now under 9 million active cases in the United States at 8,969,496. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Virginia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: La Salle, TX. Caldwell, KY. Calhoun, TX. Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Johnson, WY. Cimarron, OK. Concho, TX. Kane, UT. Petersburg Borough, AK. And Alleghany, VA.The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, South Carolina, New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. There have been 514,333 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 276. Virginia 231. Florida 150. New York 122. Texas 106. Georgia 81. Oklahoma 50. Ohio 48. North Carolina 42. And South Carolina 32. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 22.8%, New Mexico at 21.8%, and South Dakota at 20.8%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 12.1%, Utah at 12.2%, and Texas at 12.7%.Globally, cases were flat, and deaths down 23% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since February 21.  There are now 21,733,475 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 53,147. Brazil 38,349. Italy 13,114. Russia 11,571. And India 11,563.  There have now been 2,537,563 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for March 1st, 2021. It’s approved and already on the way. Nearly 4 million doses, the entire stockpile, of Johnson & Johnson’s one dose vaccine shipped last night and are on their way to states for injections that could start tomorrow. Johnson & Johnson will deliver about 16 million more doses by the end of March and 100 million total by the end of June.In the U.K., rising concern about a Brazil variant of the virus. Three cases found in England and three in Scotland. The Scottish residents had flown from Brazil by way of Paris and London. Officials are still trying to track down one of those who tested positive in England. The hope is existing vaccines can be rapidly adapted to fight the variant.Anyone crossing the border between the Moselle region of France and Germany must have proof they tested negative in the previous 48 hours. 16,000 French workers cross that border every day. Germany says that area of France is a concern due to the spread of the South Africa variant of the virus.We’ve been reporting in this podcast that Alaska’s a leader with regard to vaccinations. Now, in the remote island town of Sitka, things have been running so efficiently, they’re done seeing those at high risk and are now offering vaccines to everyone 16 and older. They’ll be among the first teens in the U.S. to get it.More bad news for those with obesity. It’s already a comorbidity known to make serious cases and hospitalizations more likely. Now data suggests the Pfizer vaccine may not be as effective in this group of people. Italian researchers found healthcare workers with obesity produced about half the antibodies after a second dose compared to others. In the United States cases were down 28%, deaths are down 22%, and hospitalizations down 30% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since February 21. There are now 9,035,262 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Virginia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Caldwell, KY. La Salle, TX. Calhoun, TX. Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Johnson, WY. Marengo, AL. Cimarron, OK. Concho, TX. Kane, UT. And Petersburg Borough, AK. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, South Carolina, New York, New Jersey, and Georgia. There have been 513,091 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 234. Texas 187. Virginia 170. Florida 113. New York 107. Pennsylvania 75. Ohio 58. Massachusetts 51. Oklahoma 49. And South Carolina 32.  The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 22.3%, New Mexico at 21%, and South Dakota at 20.2%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Georgia at 12.1%, Utah at 12.2%, and Texas at 12.4%.Globally, cases were down 3%, and deaths down 23% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since February 21.  There are now 21,901,615 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 49,412. Brazil 34,027. France 19,952. Italy 17,455. And India 15,616.  There have now been 2,530,004 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 26th, 2021. Another mutated version of the coronavirus has popped up in New York City. It first appeared in the New York area in late November and has since shown up in neighboring states. City health officials and the Mayor are saying the new research is preliminary and not much is known about the variant.Where did the flu go? February is usually the peak of flu season but this year it has virtually disappeared. Of course, experts say measures to fend off the coronavirus are the reason but still, there was a lot of talk and fear about a “twindemic” of flu and COVID-19, which now does not appear likely to happen. There was a time citizens in other countries were asking, “Why can’t we be more like Germany?” Now, not so much. With demand sky high, Germany actually has more than 1 million vaccine doses sitting unused in storage. The country has administered just 15% of the AstraZeneca vaccine it’s received. Blame is being placed on loss of trust in political leaders and incorrect press reports.If two doses of vaccine are good, maybe three are even better. Pfizer is testing what results a third dose might bring. Two doses have already shown 95% effectiveness. The CEO says they believe the third dose will raise the antibody response 10 to 20-fold.  When things are reported over and over, the public starts accepting it as truth, only to learn later maybe it wasn’t. A new study has found four main risk factors that account for two-thirds of hospitalizations - and neither age nor race are among them. The four factors are obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart failure.In the United States cases were down 34%, deaths are down 16%, and hospitalizations down 30% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since February 21. There are now 9,096,024 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Virginia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: La Salle, TX. Cimarron, OK. Calhoun, TX. Hartley, TX. Bent, CO. Marengo, AL. Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Linn, KS. Sherman, TX. And Lexington, VA. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Carolina, New York, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and North Carolina. There have been 508,114 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 384. Texas 313. Virginia 156. Georgia 135. Florida 131. Arizona 121. New York 112. Alabama 87. Ohio 82. Pennsylvania 77. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 21.3%, New Mexico at 19.4%, and South Dakota at 18.4%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Utah at 11.4%, and Tennessee and Georgia at 11.5%.Globally, cases were down 15%, and deaths down 23% over 14 days, with the 7-day average trending up since February 21.  There are now 21,896,055 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 77,377. Brazil 67,878. France 25,403. Italy 19,886. India 16,568.  There have now been 2,506,344 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 25th, 2021. A real-world test of Pfizer’s vaccine in more than half a million people in Israel confirms that even after one dose, it’s very effective at preventing serious illness or death. 92% effective at preventing severe disease after two shots and 62% after one. And it was equally effective in young people and those over 70.The FDA is one step closer to authorizing Johnson & Johnson's one dose vaccine for emergency use. A panel meets tomorrow to make a recommendation. So far, the FDA’s review noted the vaccine to be 66% effective overall in preventing moderate to severe COVID-19 and it has a "favorable safety profile." Many Covid survivors still wonder, can they get reinfected? A new study from a division of the National Institutes of Health suggests it is possible and it does happen, but it’s still quite rare. A positive antibody test can be associated with a lower risk of a second infection in the future, but it’s still unclear how long this lasts.With all the positive news around the vaccines, you’d think more people would be embracing them. But Johns Hopkins research show the percentage of people globally who say they’ll get a vaccine has gone down in recent weeks. The average acceptance level across 23 countries is now 63%. Okay, maybe you’re part of that 63% but you’re still not real sure when, where, or how you can get vaccinated. The CDC has launched a new online tool that might help. You should be able to search for vaccine providers with a supply of vaccine where you live. It’s not perfect. States and counties still have a mishmash of approaches, eligibility requirements, registration processes, and waitlist systems. But if you’d like to give it a try it’s at vaccinefinder.org.  In the United States cases were down 37%, deaths are down 23%, and hospitalizations down 31% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has again started trending up since February 21. There are now 9,115,931 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Virginia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: La Salle, TX. Cimarron, OK. Calhoun, TX. Chattahoochee, GA. Bent, CO. Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Charlottesville, VA. Lexington, VA. Linn, KS. And Marengo, AL. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Carolina, New York, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and North Carolina. There have been 505,803 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.78%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 312. Texas 311. Virginia 149. Georgia 137. Florida 130. New York 127. North Carolina 109. New Jersey 99. Pennsylvania 87. And Alabama 84.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 21.1%, New Mexico at 19.3%, and South Dakota at 18%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Utah at 11.1%, Tennessee at 11.2%, and Texas and Georgia at 11.4%.Globally, cases were down 19%, and deaths down 25% over 14 days. There are now 21,877,321 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 75,299. Brazil 65,387. France 31,519. India 17,106. And Italy 16,424.  There have now been 2,495,881 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 24th, 2021. AstraZeneca has told the European Union it expects to deliver less than half the vaccines it was contracted to supply in the second quarter. That puts the EU's target of vaccinating 70% of adults by summer in apparent jeopardy. The total supply could be about 130 million doses by the end of June, when the EU was supposed to have 300 million.Researchers say a coronavirus variant that emerged in mid-2020 and became the dominant strain in California not only spreads more readily, it evades antibodies generated by vaccines or prior infection. And it’s associated with severe illness and death. Dr. Charles Chiu, who led the team at UCSF said, “The devil is already here.” He worries about a “nightmare scenario” in which the California and U.K. mutations merge.Thoughts are trying to turn to travel. Britain plans to push G7 nations to agree on an internationally recognized system of vaccine passports. That doesn’t exist in England yet either, but they have set up a review into “COVID status certification” to explore ways people can prove they’re virus-free.Even as Canada is focused on keeping international travelers out to protect it from the virus, a new study shows its own citizens fully intend on breaking pandemic rules during spring break. 63% are considering participating in activities like indoor gatherings, going on vacations, skiing at resorts outside their communities, and flying outside of Canada. Many Americans qualify to get the vaccine right now, but the reason is making many reluctant to do so. Comorbidities that qualify people for immediate vaccination includes obesity. Data shows COVID-19 outcomes are significantly worse for patients with obesity. And health leaders worry some people aren’t getting the vaccine out of fear of embarrassment or feelings they don’t deserve to be among the first in line.  In the United States cases were down 40%, deaths are down 28%, and hospitalizations down 31% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases just ticked up for the first time since January 25th.  There are now 9,170,205 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Virginia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Cimarron, OK. Chattahoochee, GA. Lexington, VA. Bent, CO. Charlottesville, VA. Linn, KS. Sherman, TX. Clay, KS. And Pennington, MN. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Carolina, New York, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and North Carolina. There have been 502,594 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.78%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 315. Texas 258. Virginia 172. Florida 157. Arizona 148. New York 125. Missouri 121. New Jersey 104. Ohio 100. And Pennsylvania 93. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 21%, New Mexico at 19.1%, and South Dakota at 17.9%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Utah at 11.1%, Tennessee at 11.2%, and Texas at 11.3%.Globally, cases were down 19%, and deaths down 25% over 14 days. There are now 21,918,222 active cases around the world.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 71,054. Brazil 63,090. France 20,064. India 13,463. And Italy 13,314.  There have now been 2,484,988 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 23rd, 2021. Remember when the concern about schools was that kids would transmit the virus? The CDC now says kids aren’t the problem, it’s teachers. 9 elementary school clusters were studied and in only one was a student the first documented case. The study lines up with others from the U.K. that found teacher-to-teacher was the most common type of school transmission there. Cases are increasing in parts of India after months of a steady decline so, authorities are imposing lockdowns and other restrictions. Experts had been warning about returning to normal too soon if for no other reason than because nobody could reasonably explain why cases had dropped so much. The FDA has taken steps to make sure drug makers can react quickly to emerging variants and modify their vaccines without extended clinical trials. Evidence so far suggests the vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer seem to offer good protection against new variants but the virus is continuing to mutate. Long-haulers who’ve been disabled by COVID-19 want to know, when can we be classified as disabled and qualify for benefits? Advocates and lawmakers are calling on the Social Security Administration to at least study the issue. The criteria are strict and most applicants are denied. Then add to that the fact COVID-19 has scarcely existed as a recognized disease very long.  Dr. Anthony Fauci just made a couple more statements about masks. First, he thinks we’ll be wearing them well into the year 2022. But second, he says you can probably go maskless in private households around family you don’t live with if you’re sure they’ve been vaccinated. He says you can probably even hug them. In the United States cases were down 44%, deaths are down 32%, and hospitalizations down 30% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th. There are now 9,199,577 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Virginia replaces Georgia at number 5. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Cimarron, OK. Chattahoochee, GA. Lexington, VA. Charlottesville, VA. Linn, KS. Bent, CO. Sherman, TX. Douglas, IL. And Marengo, AL. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Carolina, New York, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and North Carolina. There have been 500,236 deaths in the US reported as Covid-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.78%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 248. Florida 161. Virginia 155. New York 114. Texas 113. Georgia 91. Ohio 58. Illinois 40. Connecticut 39. And Iowa and Washington 38. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 20.8%, New Mexico at 18.8%, and South Dakota at 17.7%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Tennessee and Utah at 11.1%, and Texas and Georgia at 11.3%.Globally, cases were down 20%, and deaths down 25% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11. Globally, there are now under 22 million active cases at 21,989,403.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 59,257. Brazil 29,357. Russia 12,604. India 10,792. And the U.K. 10,641.  There have now been 2,473,652 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 22nd, 2021. The U.S. death toll from the coronavirus topped a half a million Sunday according to NBC News. And while the death toll in the U.S. is the highest in the world, the country has less than 5% of the global population. A half a million people resembles the population of Atlanta or Sacramento.U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson rolls out his roadmap for lifting restrictions in England today. All schools will reopen March 8 and two families or a group of six friends will be allowed to meet outdoors three weeks after that. He has, however, resisted calls to reopen pub beer gardens. That won’t happen until at least April.In Germany, new infections rose again yesterday, which could easily interfere with planned easing of restrictions. Schools in 10 of Germany's 16 federal states are scheduled to reopen today. Experts blame the variants of the virus for the increased numbers.This podcast has been reporting the Covid numbers that are made available. But the fact is, some countries have not been publishing data. Tanzania is one of them. That country’s President has declared it "coronavirus-free,” but the World Health Organization is urging them to report cases honestly and transparently, especially after the recent deaths of senior government officials.If you wear glasses, you may not love the fact that you need them, but a new study out of India says that’s making it two to three times less likely you’ll get infected with the coronavirus. You hear a lot about masks but touching and rubbing the eyes is a significant route of infection. Researchers said we touch our own face an average 23 times an hour and our eyes three times an hour.In the United States cases were down 44%, deaths are down 35%, and hospitalizations down 30% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th. There are now 9,281,100 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Cimarron, OK. Lexington, VA. Chattahoochee, GA. Charlottesville, VA. Bent, CO. Linn, KS. Sherman, TX. Scott, TN. And Avoyelles, LA. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Carolina, New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and North Carolina. While other news outlets are reporting the number of deaths in the US reported as Covid-related has crossed over 500,000, as of this writing, Johns Hopkins is reporting the number to be 498,879, with a current national fatality rate of 1.78%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 207. Texas 137. Virginia 134. New York 101. Florida 93. South Carolina 68. Ohio 67. Massachusetts 47. Illinois 40. And Indiana 36. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 20.3%, New Mexico at 18.4%, and South Dakota at 17.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Tennessee at 11%, and Georgia and Utah at 11.1%.Globally, cases were down 22%, and deaths down 25% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11. Globally, there are 22,156,934 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 57,198. Brazil 29,026. France 22,046. India 13,980. And Italy 13,452.  There have now been 2,465,846 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 19th, 2021. Canadian researchers say a single dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are more than 92% effective in preventing COVID-19 illness after two weeks. And a separate study out of Israel suggests getting that second shot of Pfizer’s vaccine hikes efficacy only a couple of percentage points.Pfizer is also starting clinical trials of its vaccine in pregnant women. That’s the first to include expectant mothers and participants will be from several countries. Women over 18 who are 24 to 34 weeks into their pregnancy will be eligible.England’s running some tests too. It’s set to become the first country to intentionally infect healthy volunteers with COVID-19. It’s called a "human challenge study." 90 healthy volunteers will be exposed to further understand the virus’ effects. The hope is it will help identify the smallest amount of virus needed to cause infection, how the immune system reacts, and identify factors that affect transmission.Providers in Pennsylvania have since early January been giving out second doses of the Moderna vaccine as first doses, and health officials are calling that a significant mistake. More than 100,000 people could be affected. Up to 60,000 may have to reschedule appointments, and up to 55,000 others might be delayed in getting their initial dose.Thanks at least in part to Covid-19, life expectancy in the U.S. dropped one full year during the first half of 2020. Black Americans lost nearly three years and Hispanics, nearly two years. The CDC says you’d have to go back to World War II to find a decline like this.In the United States cases were down 43%, deaths are down 34%, and hospitalizations down 30% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th.  There are now 9,314,794 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Scurry, TX. Scott, TN. Bent, CO. Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Lexington, VA. Chattahoochee, GA. Stewart, GA. Crowley, CO. Hickman, TN. And Adair, IA.The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Carolina, Tennessee, New York, Rhode Island, and New Jersey. There’ve been a total 493,082 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.77%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 431. New York 219. Arizona 213. Florida 165. Texas 155. Missouri 146. Georgia 130. Ohio 101. North Carolina 96. And Pennsylvania 92. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 17.9%, New Mexico at 14.4%, and Connecticut at 14.3%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Rhode Island at 9.7%, and Georgia and Utah at 9.8%.Globally, cases were down 28%, and deaths down 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, there are 22,606,422 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 68,924. Brazil 51,350. France 22,501. Spain 14,515. And Italy 13,762.  There have now been 2,441,084 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 18th, 2021. Another group is apparently reluctant to get a Covid-19 vaccine. The military. By the thousands, U.S. service members are refusing or delaying vaccination and their commanders are trying to figure out how they can change that. Some Army units are seeing as few as one-third agree to the vaccine. They have discovered one possible motivator. Navy sailors who were being deployed last week were choosing to take the shot at rates exceeding 80% to 90%.The UN is not happy with the vaccine rollout. The Secretary General has called the distribution “wildly uneven and unfair,” pointing out that just 10 countries have administered 75% of all vaccinations. He said, “At this critical moment, vaccine equity is the biggest moral test before the global community.”A study out of NYU shows a mutation in the spike protein of the Covid-19 causing coronavirus makes it not only more infectious than the original, it makes it up to eight times more infectious. What’s known as the "G variant" likely emerged in early 2020 and is now the most prevalent and dominant form of the virus across the U.S. and many other countries. Some bad news out of the White House, the U.S. government will only have a few million doses of Johnson & Johnson's vaccine candidate in inventory by the end of February. The deal is for 100 million doses by the end of June. This is the vaccine that does not require a booster shot, but that’s estimated to be 66% effective at preventing moderate to severe COVID-19. That’s a good bit lower than competitors from Pfizer and Moderna.If you’re looking for a sunny outlook or rose-colored glasses, Dr. Anthony Fauci is not your guy. He said yesterday he sees the numbers dropping rapidly but there’s a good chance the variants will turn out to be “devastating.” He wants the masks and distancing to stay, and as for vaccines, Fauci says up to 80% of country will have to be vaccinated before we can start talking about herd immunity. In the United States cases were down 43%, deaths are down 29%, and hospitalizations down 29% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th. There are now 9,354,485 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Scurry, TX. Scott, TN. Bent, CO. Aleutians West Census Area, AK. Lexington, VA. Chattahoochee, GA. Van Buren, TN. Marion, TN. Stewart, GA. And Macon, TN. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Carolina, Tennessee, New York, Rhode Island, and New Jersey. There’ve been a total 490,447 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.76%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 409. Pennsylvania 190. Florida 158. New Jersey 135. New York 122. North Carolina 108. Kansas 104. Georgia 99. Alabama 89. And Arizona 82. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose, Alaska at 17.7%, New Mexico at 14.3%, and West Virginia at 14%. The bottom 3 vaccinating states are Rhode Island at 9.5%, and Georgia and Utah at 9.8%.Globally, cases were down 28%, and deaths down 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11. Globally, there are 22,664,869 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 71,640. Brazil 57,295. France 25,108. Russia 12,828. And the U.K. 12,718.  There have now been 2,429,669 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 17th, 2021.  A paralyzing winter storm is creating all kinds of problems for vaccination efforts. Appointments had to be cancelled, deliveries were delayed, and mass vaccination sites couldn’t open. Snow, ice and bitter cold forced authorities to halt vaccinations from Pennsylvania to Illinois and from Tennessee to Missouri.  Two variants of the coronavirus have combined to form a heavily mutated hybrid. The hybrid was discovered at Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico and is apparently a combination of the U.K. strain and a variant that originated in California. Unlike regular mutation, recombinations like this can bring multiple mutations at once. Most of the time, they don’t give the virus any extra advantage, but occasionally they do. However, a new study says the U.K. mutation by itself may be bad enough. Researchers have shown it is indeed 30 to 70% deadlier than previous virus strains, and that’s in addition to being more contagious, which we already knew. About 43 to 82% more transmissible. The CDC said the strain is spreading so fast it’s projected to become the dominant variant in the U.S. by March.  School bells are about to ring at elementary schools in Los Angeles County. In-person learning can start this week because health officials expect to reach the case threshold for reopening, which, by the way, is 25 per 100,000. Those opening have to prove safety measures are in place. Getting safely back to your favorite bar might prove difficult. Researchers in Scotland have found customers and staff both fail to stick to even the simplest safety measures. And the more they drink, the less obedient they are about it. And there was only one instance in the study that staff even tried to enforce the rules. In the United States cases were down 41%, deaths are down 22%, and hospitalizations down 29% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th.  There are now 9,401,811 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Scurry, TX. Bent, CO. Scott, TN. Van Buren, TN. Lexington, VA. San Saba, TX. Marion, TN. Stewart, GA. Macon, TN. And Jackson, TN.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Carolina, Tennessee, New York, Rhode Island, and New Jersey.  There’ve been a total 487,926 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.76%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 379. Georgia 246. Florida 223. New York 147. North Carolina 61. Ohio 59. Texas 57. Massachusetts 50. Indiana 40. And Wisconsin 38.  The list of vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose did not update their report yesterday. We’ll have updated numbers tomorrow.  Globally, cases were down 28%, and deaths down 17% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, there are 22,755,066 active cases. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 63,398. Brazil 55,271. France 19,590. Russia 13,233. And India 11,795.  There have now been 2,418,416 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 16th, 2021. Welcome to Hotel Quarantine. Britain’s newly established quarantine hotels got their first guests yesterday. Passengers arriving at London’s Heathrow Airport from 33 high risk countries were escorted by security guards to buses that took them to the hotels, where they will have to stay 10 days at their own expense.The World Health Organization yesterday listed AstraZeneca's vaccine for emergency use, increasing access to one of the more inexpensive vaccines to the developing world. The WHO's review found the Astrazeneca vaccine met the "must-have" criteria for safety, and its efficacy benefits outweighed its risks.Brazil’s President, meanwhile, is seeking emergency use authorization for an Israeli-developed nasal spray against COVID-19. Israel’s Prime Minister has described it as a “miracle” treatment with nearly 100% effectiveness against serious COVID cases.So what does happen if the mutations of the virus start getting around the vaccines as they exist today? The answer is, the vaccines will be tweaked. Regulators are looking at the flu as a blueprint to determine if and when shots need updating. The good news: Many of the COVID vaccines use a new, flexible technology that’s quite easy to upgrade. FYI, if you get these symptoms after getting a vaccination, the CDC says you should be glad…because they’re a sign the vaccine is working. They are…pain at the injection site that lasts a little over a day. Fatigue, which means your immune system is doing its job. And a low-grade fever, anything below 100.4 is fine. In the United States cases were down 39%, deaths are down 18%, and hospitalizations down 28% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th. There are now 9,462,875 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Scurry, TX. Aleutians East Borough, AK. San Saba, TX. Bent, CO. Lexington, VA. Van Buren, TN. Scott, TN. Marion, TN. Macon, TN. And Jackson, TN. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Carolina, New York, Tennessee, New Jersey, and Delaware. There’ve been a total 486,317 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.76%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 155. New York 119. Connecticut 66. California 64. Texas 60. Georgia 57. Ohio 48. Illinois 45. South Carolina 36. And Massachusetts and Louisiana 33. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose are Alaska at 17.3%, West Virginia at 13.8%, and New Mexico at 13.7%. The bottom 3 are Rhode Island at 9.2%, Utah at 9.6%, and Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia at 9.7%.Globally, cases were down 29%, and deaths down 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11. Globally, there are 22,890,966 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 52,785. Brazil 32,197. Russia 14,207. Spain 11,942. And the U.K. 9,765.  There have now been 2,407,607 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 15th, 2021. Average daily new cases in the U.S. dipped below 100,000 recently for the first time in months. The average dropped below 100,000 Friday for the first time since Nov. 4. and stayed below 100,000 Saturday. The CDC says the country is still at about 100,000 cases a day and around 1,500 to 3,500 deaths per day. Speaking of the CDC, its director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said despite encouraging numbers, states should keep mask-wearing mandates in place. Governors in Montana and Iowa lifted statewide mask requirements this month. North Dakota’s mask mandate expired in January. And New York Governor Andrew Cuomo recently allowed indoor dining at 25% capacity.One reason to not jump the gun are the various strains of the virus. And British scientists have reinforced in a new study the variant first detected in the U.K. is not only more contagious but more lethal, contributing to increased deaths in the country. Scientists earlier said there was a "realistic possibility" that was because of the new variant but now they say it’s "likely.” Japan formally approved its first vaccine yesterday, the one from Pfizer, and said nationwide inoculations would start within days. That puts it months behind the U.S. and many other countries but still, a process that usually takes a year happened in two months. Medical workers are first in line.Grumble if you like about slow vaccine rollouts, but UNICEF reminds us there are 130 countries that have yet to administer a single dose. That represents around 2.5 billion people, mostly in low- and middle-income countries. The result is they’re being forced in desperation to buy vaccines with lower levels of effectiveness against the original and new strains of the virus. In the United States cases were down 37%, deaths are down 16%, and hospitalizations down 28% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th. There are now 9,540,008 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Scurry, TX. Aleutians East Borough, AK. San Saba, TX. Bent, CO. Lexington, VA. Van Buren, TX. Scott, TN. Marion, TN. Macon, TN. And Jackson, TN. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Carolina, New York, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Oklahoma. There’ve been a total 485,332 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.76%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 200. Texas 129. New York 122. Florida 96. South Carolina 87. Massachusetts 60. North Carolina 38. Illinois 34. Tennessee 31. And Arizona and Oklahoma 30. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose are Alaska at 16.7%, West Virginia at 13.5%, and New Mexico at 13.2%. The bottom 3 are Rhode Island at 9%, Idaho at 9.2%, and Tennessee and Georgia at 9.3%.Globally, cases were down 28%, and deaths down 16% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11. Globally, there are 25,353,918 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 64,297. Brazil 23,258. France 16,546. Russia 14,185. And India 11,434.  There have now been 2,399,330 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 12th, 2021. It’s encouraging to report each day numbers of new and active cases going down but…it remains to be explained why that suddenly started happening in early January. Experts say it can’t be the vaccines or herd immunity, and there’s been no explosive burst in compliance with safety suggestions. Some say it’s tied to warmer weather but again, the freefall began in early January, and what about last summer when we were told warmer weather had no significant effect? Others say people obeyed rules during the holidays, but reports were that travel numbers and gatherings were very high. While they have no answer, experts do tend to agree that the rapidly dropping numbers run the risk of giving the public a false sense of security and threatens to roll back safety measure compliance.The Associated Press reports more than 9,000 recovering coronavirus patients in New York state were released from hospitals into nursing homes early in the pandemic. It was a controversial order criticized for accelerating outbreaks. The new number is more than 40% higher than what the state health department previously reported. The U.S. has finalized deals to buy 200 million more vaccine doses from Pfizer and Moderna by the end of July. The goal is still to have all Americans inoculated by mid-summer. That’s on top of doses already scheduled for delivery that should bring the total supply to 300 million. Positive results around how some common drugs already on the market might be used to treat Covid-19. Oxford researchers say budesonide, a common asthma drug, reduced by 90% the need for urgent care or hospitalization compared to the usual treatment for virus patients. And the rheumatoid arthritis drug tocilizumab appears to reduce the risk of death in hospitalized patients, especially when combined with the steroid dexamethasone. Pardon any mispronunciations there. In the United States cases were down 36%, deaths are down 22%, and hospitalizations down 27% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th.  There are now 9,584,499 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Aleutians East Borough, AK. San Saba, TX. Scurry, TX. Lexington, VA. Crowley, CO. Burleson, TX. Van Buren, TX. Jim Hogg, TX. Dimmit, TX. And Hall, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Carolina, Rhode Island, North Carolina, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. There’ve been a total 475,291 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.73%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 496. Texas 386. Arizona 200. Florida 176. New York 167. Alabama 133. Illinois 116. North Carolina 113. Pennsylvania 108. And South Carolina 95.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose are Alaska at 15.4%, West Virginia at 12.4%, and New Mexico at 12.3%. The bottom 3 are Missouri, Kansas, and Rhode Island at 8.3%.Globally, cases were down 26%, and deaths down 14% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, there are 25,438,521 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 103,481. Brazil 53,993. France 21,063. Spain 17,853. And Italy 15,146.  There have now been 2,367,856 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 11th, 2021.Updated guidance from the CDC. You usually should quarantine 1-2 weeks if you may have been exposed to see if you develop symptoms. Now the CDC says that’s not necessary for fully vaccinated people within 3 months of getting their last dose as long as they don’t have symptoms.Apparently, you don’t just need to wear a mask, you need to wear two of them at the same time. U.S. government researchers found wearing one mask — surgical or cloth — blocked about 40% of particles. But when you wear a cloth mask over a surgical mask, about 80% were blocked.Speaking of masks, they’re the subject of a big scam. The feds are investigating a massive counterfeit N95 mask operation in which fake 3M masks were sold in at least five states to hospitals, medical facilities, and government agencies.Some great news about the Pfizer vaccine. Even those who become infected with the coronavirus before they get their second dose present a much lower risk of transmission. The vaccine appears to lower the viral load 4x for infections that happen 12 to 28 days after the first dose. That study has not yet been peer reviewed.Get ready to get your heart warmed. Being a hospitalized Covid patient can be frightening, and lonely with no family allowed. In Massachusetts, Dr. Ben Moor figured since he’d gotten his second dose of the vaccine, he could just visit with patients outside of work hours. He now has 46 volunteers and growing doing the same. They still must wear layers of protective equipment, but patients are getting comforting human interaction.In the United States cases were down 35%, deaths are down 20%, and hospitalizations down 26% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th. There are now 9,586,691 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Aleutians East Borough, AK. San Saba, TX. Crowley, CO. Burleson, TX. Lexington, VA. Crockett, TX. McCormick, SC. Jeff Davis, TX. Hall, TX. And Cleveland, AR.The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Carolina, Rhode Island, North Carolina, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.There’ve been a total 471,377 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.73%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 478. Texas 348. Alabama 309. Arizona 176. New York 165. Florida 164. New Jersey 147. Pennsylvania 142. North Carolina 135. And Georgia 120.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose are Alaska at 15.2%, West Virginia at 12.3%, and New Mexico at 12.1%. The bottom 3 are Kansas and Missouri at 8%, and Alabama and Rhode Island at 8.1%.Globally, cases were down 26%, and deaths down 13% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11. Globally, there are 25,484,001 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 96,806. Brazil 60,271. France 25,387. Spain 18,114. And Russia 14,494. There have now been 2,353,620 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 10th, 2021. As far as the World Health Organization is concerned, its verdict is in and they say the coronavirus is unlikely to have leaked from the Chinese lab in Wuhan. Their best assessment is that it spontaneously jumped to humans from an intermediary animal species.Data from researchers in Israel suggests the Pfizer vaccine is indeed reducing viral load, a key signal it could diminish the transmission and spread of Covid-19. Accomplishing that is key to reducing the risk of more variants emerging and to achieving herd immunity.The percentage of American adults who are willing to get the vaccine is going up, but that’s not to say there aren’t still problems. The number went from 39% in September to 49% in December. But younger adults, women, and Black Americans were among the most likely to say they will not be vaccinated. The most common concerns are side effects and lack of trust in the government.The pandemic revealed a worldwide crisis in how we treat and care for our elderly, and the Vatican has taken note. A position paper has labeled it a massacre and is calling for a new paradigm of care. One thing it suggests is resisting institutionalizing the elderly as part of what the Pope calls today's “throwaway culture” that treats many people as nonessential.There are safety measures, and then there are safety measures with teeth. Big ones. A new policy announced yesterday says anyone arriving in England and found to have lied about a recent visit to one of 33 countries on the travel ban list can face up to 10 years in prison.In the United States cases were down 36%, deaths are down 12%, and hospitalizations down 26% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th.  There are now 9,680,957 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Aleutians East Borough, AK. Burleson, TX. Crowley, CO. San Saba, TX. Perry, AL. Oldham, TX. Cleveland, AR. McCormick, SC. Mills, TX. And Crockett, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Carolina, Texas, North Carolina, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. There’ve been a total 468,103 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.72%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 520. Texas 303. Arizona 231. Florida 230. New York 172. Georgia 171. Pennsylvania 157. Ohio 99. New Jersey 93. And Washington 85. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose are Alaska at 15%, West Virginia at 12.2%, and New Mexico at 12%. The bottom 3 are Alabama at 7.7%, and Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, and Rhode Island at 8%.Globally, cases were down 25%, and deaths down 11% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, there are 25,595,795 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 95,542. Brazil 51,733. France 18,870. Spain 16,402. And Russia 15,019.  There have now been 2,339,991 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 9th, 2021. The United States reported a 25% drop in new cases last week, the biggest fall since the pandemic started. In fact, new cases have now fallen four weeks in a row to the lowest level since early November, according to a Reuters analysis. The steepest drop was in California, where cases fell 48%. Only Oregon, Arkansas and Vermont saw cases rise. Updated statistics from Russia on coronavirus-linked deaths showed 162,429 people with COVID-19 died last year. That number is significantly far higher than previously reported. And the lower count is used in numbers released by the World Health Organization. December accounted for the highest number of Russian deaths since April. The number of COVID-19 patients in ICU in French hospitals reached its highest number in more than two months. And hospitalizations rose for the second straight day. France has not imposed a third national lockdown, hoping a curfew in place since Dec. 15 and a strong vaccine rollout would keep the virus in check.Rep. Ron Wright of Texas died Sunday after having been hospitalized for Covid-19. That’s the first Covid-related death of a sitting U.S. Congressperson, however Wright had also been battling cancer. He was 67. He tested positive more than two weeks ago and said at the time his symptoms were minor and he felt okay.Guess we should have listened when our dentists nagged us about flossing. A new study suggests Covid-19 patients with gum disease are nine times more likely to die with the virus. They were also 3.5 times more likely to be admitted to ICU and 4.5 times more likely to need a ventilator. The theory is inflammation in the mouth may open the door to the coronavirus becoming more violent. In the United States cases were down 31%, deaths are down 8%, and hospitalizations down 26% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th.  There are now 9,711,640 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Aleutians East Borough, AK. Burleson, TX. Lincoln, CO. Crowley, CO. Cleveland, AR. Mills, TX. Crockett, TX. Oldham, TX. McCormick, SC. And San Saba, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Maine, Texas, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Arkansas. There’ve been a total 464,845 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.72%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 238. New York 150. Florida 119. Texas 100. Tennessee 97. Kansas 86. Connecticut 68. Indiana 58. Massachusetts 55. And Virginia 42. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose are Alaska at 14.5%, West Virginia at 12.1%, and New Mexico at 11.7%. The bottom 3 are Iowa at 7.5%, Alabama at 7.7%, and Missouri 7.8%.Globally, cases were down 23%, and deaths down 10% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, there are 25,672,302 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 87,031. Brazil 25,661. Spain 19,305. Russia 15,916. And the U.K. 14,104.  There have now been 2,324,794 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 8th, 2021. The CDC says it has distributed 59.3 million doses of vaccines in the United States and 39 million of those have been administered as of Saturday morning. 30.2 million have gotten one or more doses, while 8.3 million have definitely gotten the second dose.Scientists say U.S. health officials may be overlooking people who get reinfected. And that data’s important to understand immunity and what vaccination programs are effective. Scientists have confirmed reinfections are possible but dismiss them as rare. But not many labs keep testing samples or do genetic sequencing. In other words, reinfections aren’t being tracked. South Africa has suspended plans to inoculate front-line health care workers with the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine. A small clinical trial suggested it’s not effective in preventing mild to moderate illness from the strain dominant in that country. The variant is currently accounting for more than 90% of cases. In the U.S., the problem is the U.K. strain. It’s still at low levels overall but is doubling its reach about every 10 days, according to published research. Modeling by the CDC last month predicted the more contagious variant could be the dominant one in the U.S. by March. One country that is not talking about vaccine passports is Britain. That country will not introduce such COVID-19 vaccine passports, but citizens will be able to get proof from their doctor if that’s needed for travel to other countries. In the United States cases were down 31%, deaths are down 5%, and hospitalizations down 25% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th. There are now 9,782,082 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Aleutians East Borough, AK. Burleson, TX. Lincoln, CO. Crowley, CO. Crockett, TX. Mills, TX. San Saba, TX. Oldham, TX. McCormick, SC. And Cleveland, AR. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Maine, Texas, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Arkansas. There’ve been a total 463,433 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.7%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 171. California 165. New York 152. Florida 97. Massachusetts 78. Pennsylvania 71. Indiana 65. Illinois 62. North Carolina 57. And Oklahoma 52. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose are Alaska at 14.1%, West Virginia at 12%, and New Mexico at 11.5%. The bottom 3 are Iowa at 7.1%, Missouri at 7.3%, and Idaho and Kansas at 7.5%.Globally, cases were down 24%, and deaths down 8% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11. Globally, there are 25,828,960 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 89,691. Brazil 26,845. France 19,715. Russia 16,048. And the U.K. 15,845.  There have now been 2,316,702 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 5th, 2021. Coronavirus deaths in the US are still at more than 3,000 a day, despite vaccines and falling infections. The new CDC director says deaths could ebb as early as next week. The biggest driver to the U.S. death toll over the past month has been California, averaging more than 500 a day.Johnson & Johnson has officially asked U.S. regulators to clear the world’s first single-dose vaccine for use. Preliminary results show it to be safe and offer strong protection against moderate to severe COVID-19, but not as strong as two-dose competitors. The regulatory panel doesn’t even meet again until Feb. 26.The situation in Mexico is being described as “desperate.” The country is running out of vaccines, a government registration website crashed for a third straight day, and restaurant workers are protesting being driven into poverty. Hospitals are over 80% full.The CDC has found the pandemic disproportionately affects LGBTQ Americans. Why? More underlying health conditions, including higher rate of asthma, cancer, heart disease, kidney disease, and strokes. Black and Hispanic LGBTQ people are at an even higher risk.The tournament’s director says the Australian Open will start Monday even though a worker at one of the Melbourne hotels used to quarantine players and their entourages tested positive. The government, however, has made it clear safety is paramount and there are “no guarantees.”In the United States cases were down 30%, deaths are flat, and hospitalizations down 23% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th.  There are now 9,775,273 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Aleutians East Borough, AK. Dimmit, TX. Chattahoochee, GA. Zavala, TX. Lincoln, CO. Hitchcock, NE. San Saba, TX. Oldham, TX. Forest, PA. And Maverick, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Texas, South Carolina, Rhode Island, Arizona, and Oklahoma. There’ve been a total 455,657 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.7%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 501. Texas 412. Florida 226. Arizona 176. Georgia and Tennessee 169. Alabama 162. New York 151. North Carolina 150. And Pennsylvania 130. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose are Alaska at 13.4%, West Virginia at 10.9%, and New Mexico at 10.4%. The bottom 3 are Idaho at 6%, Missouri at 6.1%, and Iowa at 6.3%.Globally, cases were down 22%, and deaths down 1% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, there are 25,884,477 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 121,627. Brazil 57,848. Spain 29,960. France 23,448. And the U.K. 20,634.  There have now been 2,281,608 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 4th, 2021. Who’s up for a vaccine cocktail? British scientists are starting a study to see if it's OK to mix and match vaccines. Guidelines say they aren't interchangeable but can be mixed if the same kind isn’t available for the second dose or if it’s not known what was given for the first shot. Which of course, sounds directly contradictory. This study aims to clarify things. China says it will provide 10 million doses to developing nations. The Foreign Ministry says China’s responding to a request from the World Health Organization as developing countries try to fill shortages predicted to last through March. No word on which vaccine they’re providing or if they’re donating it.A new study from UK Biobank says people who have recovered from COVID-19 probably have high levels of antibodies for 6 months or more that should protect them from reinfection. No one will say for sure but it’s some reassurance reinfections won’t happen soon after recovery. And the findings are similar to other studies in the U.K. and Iceland in recent months. The federal government will open its first mass vaccination sites in California. One will be the Oakland Coliseum where the Oakland A’s play and the other will be on campus at California State University, Los Angeles. Both are adjacent to communities hardest hit by the pandemic.There was some doubt there would be an NFL season at all. So here at the end of it, how did the league’s Covid-19 protocols perform? Chief medical officer Dr. Allen Sills announced the total positivity rate for the NFL this season was .08%. In fact, it’s felt that team facilities were among the safest possible locations for players and staff.In the United States cases were down 30%, deaths are up 2%, and hospitalizations down 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th.  There are now 9,781,749 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Aleutians East Borough, AK. Chattahoochee, GA. Dimmit, TX. San Saba, TX. Lincoln, CO. Dallam, TX. Maverick, TX. Forest, PA. Hartley, TX. And Oldham, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Texas, South Carolina, Arizona, Rhode Island, and New York. There’ve been a total 450,680 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.7%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 587. Texas 426. Alabama 309. Arizona 214. New York 209. Florida 198. North Carolina 169. Pennsylvania 147. Georgia 137. And Tennessee 133. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose are Alaska at 13.3%, West Virginia at 10.8%, and New Mexico at 10.2%. The bottom 3 are Idaho and Missouri at 5.8%, and Iowa at 6.2%.Globally, cases were down 21%, and deaths flat over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, there are 25,851,469 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 113,459. Brazil 53,665. Spain 31,596. France 26,362. And the U.K. 19,202.  There have now been 2,267,768 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 3rd, 2021. The U.S. government will start shipping vaccines to U.S. pharmacies next week in an attempt to ramp up vaccinations as new, possibly more serious virus strains threaten progress. About 6,500 pharmacies will get 1 million doses and more locations will be added as production allows. This podcast deals a lot with statistics, so here’s an interesting one. There are now more Americans who’ve been vaccinated than those who have contracted COVID-19. 26.5 million have gotten at least one dose and there have been 26.3 million documented cases since the pandemic began. However…you might want to take this into account. A new study from the National Institutes of Health found that almost 5% of Americans surveyed had undiagnosed Covid-19 last summer — meaning almost 17 million cases weren’t counted. Some researchers estimate 30-40% of cases are asymptomatic. New research on Americans out of the U.K.’s Imperial College London suggests the age group that might be fueling most new cases are people 35 to 49. The researchers concluded most infections originate from people from 20 to 49, but those 35 to 49 were responsible for 41.1% of new cases. If you’ve been worrying Pfizer isn’t making enough money from its vaccine, try not to. The company expects to generate $15 billion, about a fourth of its total revenue this year, from sales of its vaccine. They are working to ramp up production and expect a long-lasting need for the vaccine going forward. In the United States cases were down 29%, deaths are down 2%, and hospitalizations down 21% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th.  There are now 9,819,069 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lincoln, CO. Chattahoochee, GA. Dimmit, TX. Presidio, TX. Upton, TX. Hartley, TX. Maverick, TX. Zavala, TX. San Saba, TX. And Dallam, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, South Carolina, Rhode Island, New York, and Texas. There’ve been a total 446,746 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.69%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 487. Texas 371. Arizona 238. Georgia 208. Alabama 206. New York and Missouri 191. Tennessee 147. Florida 140. And Pennsylvania 121. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose are Alaska at 13.2%, West Virginia at 10.8%, and New Mexico at 10.1%. The bottom 3 are Idaho at 5.6%, Missouri at 5.8%, and Iowa at 6.1%.Globally, cases were down 21%, and deaths up 2% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, there are 25,876,452 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 114,703. Brazil 56,240. Spain 29,064. France 23,337. And the U.K. 16,840.  There have now been 2,251,944 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 2nd, 2021. January was the deadliest month yet of the outbreak in the U.S. However, cases and hospitalizations are plummeting, and vaccinations are picking up speed. 95,000 lives were lost in January and are running at about 3,150 per day on average.The U.S. has agreed to spend $231.8 million with an Australian company to boost availability of the first at-home rapid test available without a prescription. The test can send results to a smartphone within 15 minutes of getting a sample. The FDA gave emergency authorization for it back in December after it showed 96% accuracy. The CDC says only a little more than a third of nursing home workers have been getting a vaccine the first time it’s offered. While 78% of residents got at least one shot, only 37.5% of staff did. Surveys suggest workers in these facilities are skeptical the shots work.Australia is not hesitant to do lockdowns. About 2 million Australians started their first full day of a strict lockdown yesterday because one case was found in Perth. The lockdown will last at least five days.So have you done it? Have you held your breath while walking by someone thinking that protects you from getting the virus? The answer is…it might. An aerosol expert at the University of Colorado Boulder says the risk of transmission when you pass someone on the street is already very low, especially in a mask. But holding your breath might help a little in rare circumstances. In the United States cases were down 32%, deaths are down 5%, and hospitalizations down 19% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th.  There are now 9,827,632 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Presidio, TX. Dimmit, TX. Upton, TX. Hartley, TX. Maverick, TX. Zavala, TX. Dallam, TX. Forest, PA. And Morgan, KY. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, South Carolina, Rhode Island, New York, and Texas. There’ve been a total 443,186 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.69%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 408. South Carolina 241. Florida 206. New York 178. Texas 107. Tennessee 103. Connecticut 73. Ohio and Louisiana 53. And Georgia 44. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose are Alaska at 13%, West Virginia at 10.7%, and Connecticut and New Mexico at 9.8%. The bottom 3 are Idaho at 5.5%, Missouri at 5.6%, and Iowa at 6%.Globally, cases were down 21%, and deaths up 2% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, the number of active cases dropped back down under 26 million at 25,948,562.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 125,454. Spain 25,867. Brazil 25,285. The U.K. 18,607. And Russia 17,648. There have now been 2,236,559 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for February 1st, 2021. AstraZeneca has agreed to supply 9 million additional doses of its vaccine to the European Union during the first quarter. The new target of 40 million doses by the end of March is still just half what the company originally aimed for before it announced a shortfall due to production problems.New York City’s mayor acknowledged Black and Latino residents are getting vaccines at far lower rates than white or Asian residents. City health department data shows 48% of those who’ve gotten at least one vaccine dose are white. However, the numbers are incomplete because about 40% of those vaccinated in the city have not provided any demographic information. China recorded more than 2,000 new domestic cases in January, that’s the highest monthly total since the tail end of the initial outbreak in Wuhan in March of last year. And that does not include another 435 infected who arrived from abroad. Two people have died in January, the first reported coronavirus deaths in China in several months.Israel extended a national lockdown as new strains are offsetting its vaccination drive. While 24% of citizens have been vaccinated, a projected mid-January turnaround didn’t happen. Serious cases have surged among Israelis who have not yet been vaccinated. If you get a card saying you’ve been vaccinated, maybe skip the cute selfie with it you were going to post on social media. The Better Business Bureau says these cards have personal information like name and birth date. And scammers can use these images to sell fake vaccine cards. In the United States cases were down 33%, deaths are down 5%, and hospitalizations down 18% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th. There are now 9,911,107 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. Presidio, TX. Hitchcock, NE. Dimmit, TX. Upton, TX. Hartley, TX. Maverick, TX. Zavala, TX. Dallam, TX. And Culberson, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, South Carolina, Rhode Island, Oklahoma, and New York. There’ve been a total 441,319 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.68%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Iowa 250. California 226. Texas 179. New York 162. Alabama 122. Florida 120. Pennsylvania 113. Tennessee 76. Louisiana 58. And Ohio 54.The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose are Alaska at 12.5%, West Virginia at 10.7%, and Connecticut at 9.6%. The bottom 3 are Missouri at 5.1%, Idaho at 5.2%, and Kansas, Illinois, and Iowa at 5.8%.Globally, cases were down 21%, and deaths up 4% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11. Globally, there are now over 26 million active cases, at 26,154,213.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 107,816. Brazil 27,756. The U.K. 21,088. France 19,235. And Russia 18,359. There have now been 2,227,074 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 29th, 2021. New York’s Attorney General reported, and the Governor’s administration confirmed, thousands more nursing home residents died of COVID-19 than official tallies previously acknowledged. This after the state refused to divulge its true numbers for months. The Attorney General said long term care resident deaths weren’t counted as such if they happened in a hospital instead of on property.Novavax said its vaccine appears 89% effective based on early findings, and it also seems to work — though not as well — against mutated strains of the virus. It performs well with the U.K. strain but not as well against the one from South Africa.New federal data shows a dozen states are reporting drops of 25% or more in new cases. Since there remain complaints about vaccine not being available, that can’t be the reason for this sudden trend. So what is? Experts say it’s because people are more afraid of the virus and are following preventative guidelines more.But is there a vaccine shortage? CDC data shows 16 states have actually used less than half of the vaccines that were distributed to them. Those states are Alabama, Wisconsin, Kansas, Hawaii, Arizona, Pennsylvania, California, Maryland, Minnesota, Idaho, Missouri, Mississippi, Illinois, Massachusetts, Nebraska, and Ohio.You don’t hear much about it, but work is still being done to roll out better coronavirus testing. In England, they’re using the LampORE test, which only requires a sample of saliva. Trials show it’s good at finding cases, even if the person being tested has no symptoms.In the United States cases were down 34%, deaths are down 1%, and hospitalizations down 14% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th. There are now 9,824,711 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Forest, PA. Chattahoochee, GA. Hitchcock, NE. Hemphill, TX. Winchester, VA. Presidio, TX. San Miguel, CO. Dimmit, TX. Culberson, TX. And Zavala, TX.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, South Carolina, Rhode Island, New York, and Texas. There’ve been a total 432,971 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.68%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 614. Texas 413. New York 237. South Carolina 230. Pennsylvania 220. Florida 200. Georgia 184. Arizona 176. Alabama 168. And North Carolina 131. The top 3 vaccinating states by percentage of population that’s had at least one dose are Alaska at 11.4%, West Virginia at 9.5%, and Connecticut at 8.5%. The bottom 3 are Missouri and Idaho at 4.5%, and Alabama at 4.7%Globally, cases were down 22%, and deaths up 4% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11. Globally, there are 25,966,260 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 162,574. Brazil 60,301. Spain 34,899. The U.K. 28,680. And France 23,770. There have now been 2,188,745 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 28th, 2021. In a sign the U.S. continues to believe ending all travel is a key to beating the virus, a senior CDC official says the U.S. is actively looking at expanding mandatory testing to travelers even on domestic flights traveling within the continental United States. Last week, the President told federal agencies to recommend additional measures to be imposed on domestic travel.With many criticizing their country’s leaders for not handling the pandemic well enough, an Australian think tank ranked countries by crunching the data on confirmed deaths and testing rates. The country that did best was New Zealand, followed by Vietnam and Taiwan. The poorest performing country was Brazil, followed by Mexico and Colombia. China was excluded from the list because they did not make enough data available. Speaking of China, it definitely approaches things from…a different direction. Beijing has introduced anal swabs as a new type of coronavirus test it says detects the virus more accurately. There are even reports of surprise tests for some individuals like passengers arriving in Beijing and residents of quarantine centers.  Will nursing homes be a permanent casualty of Covid-19? Research by the American Health Care Association shows about 90% of them are operating at a loss or less than 3% profit, and more than 65% said they’ll likely close within the year. Many already have. The result could be catastrophic on family caregivers as the 65+ population is the U.S.’s fastest growing demographic. Two positive Covid-19 cases of note: the President of Mexico has tested positive. The 67-year-old’s symptoms are mild and he's being treated. And American television host Michael Strahan has tested positive and is quarantining. He too is not currently experiencing any severe symptoms.In the United States cases were down 33%, deaths are flat, and hospitalizations down 13% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 25th.  There are now 9,783,927 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Forest, PA. Chattahoochee, GA. Dimmit, TX. Hitchcock, NE. Hemphill, TX. San Miguel, CO. Val Verde, TX. Upton, TX. Presidio, TX. And Culberson, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, South Carolina, Rhode Island, New York, and North Carolina. There’ve been a total 429,157 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.68%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 457. California 379. Alabama 276. Pennsylvania 220. Arizona 195. Florida 162. Georgia 161. Tennessee 154. New York 148. And North Carolina 139. Globally, cases were down 20%, and deaths up 8% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, there are 25,925,920 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 151,727. Brazil 63,895. Spain 40,285. France 26,916. And the U.K. 25,308. There have now been 2,173,938 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 27th, 2021. The European Union has warned pharmaceutical companies that developed vaccines with money from the EU, the shots better come in on schedule. In fact, it threatened to impose export controls on vaccines made within its borders. Many of the 27 member states are struggling to get their vaccine rollout going.Lots of eyes are turning to Johnson & Johnson, which says data on its vaccine should come out early next week. Theirs is a single-dose option which should simplify and speed inoculations. The company also says it anticipates being able to meet demand.  The World Health Organization has new advice for treating COVID-19 patients, including long haulers with persistent symptoms after recovery. They advise using low-dose anti-coagulants to prevent blood clots, using a pulse oximeter at home to track oxygen levels, and that patients should be put into the awake prone position, on their front, which improves oxygen flow.Several European countries are considering requiring masks be surgical or medical-grade respirators. These are typically called N95, KN95 or FFP2 masks. Governments say cloth masks aren’t subject to any standards. But in the U.S., the CDC actually discourages the public from using medical masks, saying they should be conserved for healthcare workers. It says cloth masks work, except now they suggest wearing two of them.Two more people of note lost to Covid-19, the Defense Minister of Colombia has died at age 69. And longtime NBA reporter Sekou Smith, seen regularly on NBA TV, died at age 48. He covered basketball for more than 20 years and spent the last 11 with Turner Sports.In the United States cases were down 31%, deaths down 3%, and hospitalizations down 11% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending up since January 24th.  There are now 9,808,357 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Forest, PA. Dimmit, TX. Chattahoochee, GA. Hitchcock, NE. San Miguel, CO. Hemphill, TX. Milam, TX. Culberson, TX. Uvalde, TX. And Winchester, VA. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, South Carolina, Rhode Island, West Virginia, and New York. There’ve been a total 425,062 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.67%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 728. Texas 332. Alabama 234. Florida 229. Pennsylvania 214. New York 210. Arizona 209. Tennessee 192. Georgia 179. And New Jersey 132. Globally, cases were down 20%, and deaths up 9% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, there are 25,816,304 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 148,265. Brazil 63,626. Spain 36,435. France 22,086. And the U.K. 20,089. There have now been 2,155,052 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 26th, 2021. Is it suddenly over? The Governor of California lifted stay-at-home orders across the state yesterday because coronavirus conditions are improving. Southern California still has an ICU capacity of 0%, but the Governor said the move is based on modeling for the next 4 weeks.And we ask again, is it suddenly over? Dr. Anthony Fauci said yesterday cases and hospitalizations are dropping in most of the country. But why? He speculated it’s a natural plateau after the post-holiday surge and said it cannot likely be attributed to vaccines.One major pharmaceutical company is giving up. Merck is abandoning two potential vaccines after early-stage studies delivered poor results. The company will focus instead on two possible treatments for the virus that also haven’t been approved by regulators yet.Despite the concern they express for the public, many wealthy people are using a range of strategies to make sure they get the vaccine first. In Hollywood, they’re using private and concierge health services, and, until it was banned, private flights to Florida to get vaccinated. Doctors in Beverly Hills say they’re getting five-figure bribes. And there are reports of people getting temporarily fake-hired in the healthcare industry so they can get their shots.They’re considered essential but Americans are being warned to stay out of supermarkets. New research shows a clear link between COVID-19 exposure and grocery stores. One study found that’s the most frequent location people visited prior to testing positive. The CDC advises everyone order groceries online for home delivery or pickup.In the United States cases were down 33%, deaths down 5%, and hospitalizations down 9% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 8th. There are now 9,812,845 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Forest, PA. Dimmit, TX. Chattahoochee, GA. San Miguel, CO. Hemphill, TX. Hitchcock, NE. Zavala, TX. Uvalde, TX. Val Verde, TX. And Milam, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, South Carolina, Rhode Island, West Virginia, and New York. There’ve been a total 420,963 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.68%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 410. New York 217. Florida 153. Texas 135. Tennessee 111. Connecticut 92. Illinois 64. Ohio 57. Pennsylvania 56. And Georgia 53. Globally, cases were down 20%, and deaths up 8% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11. Globally, there are 25,838,818 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 152,244. Spain 38,682. Brazil 28,364. The U.K. 22,195. And Russia 19,290.There have now been 2,139,183 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 25th, 2021. While the coronavirus and its variants are all over the world, increasingly, world governments appear convinced that keeping each other out is part of the answer. The U.S. is banning non-U.S. citizens coming from South Africa, Brazil, the U.K., Ireland and 26 countries in Europe. Israel is banning all incoming and outgoing passenger flights until the end of January.Mexico is set to surpass 150,000 deaths from COVID-19, one of the world's highest death tolls. Its death count is closing the gap with India, a country whose population is several times larger. And Mexico’s President announced he has tested positive, though his symptoms are mild.Taiwan will more than double the number of people who have to quarantine at home for 14 days to more than 5,000. It’s trying to contain a domestic cluster of COVID-19 connected to a hospital. Overall, Taiwan has done exceptionally well. It currently only has 95 active cases being treated in hospital.Not so in the United States. An Associated Press analysis shows more than 40% of Americans now live in areas running out of ICU space, with only 15% of beds still available. Hospitalizations are still particularly high in the West and South, with over 80,000 COVID-19 patients in those regions. Amidst talk of requiring a vaccination passport to travel, England’s deputy chief medical officer says even if you’ve been vaccinated, you can you still pass the coronavirus on to other people. His point is being vaccinated does not free anyone from lockdown, distance, and masking restrictions. In the United States cases were down 34%, deaths down 4%, and hospitalizations down 7% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 8th.  There are now 9,862,996 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Forest, PA. Dimmit, TX. Montour, PA. Chattahoochee, GA. San Miguel, CO. Hemphill, TX. Petersburg, VA. Zavala, TX. Richmond, VA. And Hopewell, VA. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, South Carolina, Rhode Island, California, and New York. There’ve been a total 419,204 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.68%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 298. Texas 222. New York 176. Florida 126. North Carolina 109. Pennsylvania and Louisiana 82. Massachusetts 69. And Arizona and South Carolina 68. Globally, cases were down 17%, and deaths up 9% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, there are 25,886,055 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 135,182. The U.K. 30,004. Brazil 28,346. Russia 21,127. And Mexico 20,057. There have now been 2,128,721 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 22nd, 2021. New policies going into effect in the U.S. The administration is asking Americans to wear masks for 100 days and a separate order will go out mandating masks on airplanes, trains, and other public transportation. Plus, all travelers coming from abroad—U.S. citizens and permanent residents included—must quarantine after international travel for 10 days on arrival. Public health experts say the U.S. government tried to get states to vastly expand their efforts to get the nation’s estimated 54 million people 65 and over vaccinated…and that was a bad thing. State and local officials continue to say there’s not enough to meet that demand.Researchers warned the third lockdown appears to be having little impact on rates of COVID-19 in England, saying there’s “no evidence of decline” in the first 10 days of renewed restrictions. The current lockdown began Jan. 5 with bars, restaurants, most schools, and most shops closed.China is racing to build a massive quarantine camp capable of housing more than 4,000 people after an outbreak of Covid-19 this month. A sudden rise in cases has alarmed officials and raised concerns ahead of the Lunar New Year when hundreds of millions are expected to travel to visit family. Construction began January 13th and the first section is already usable.Another likely casualty of the pandemic, the Olympics. Japan’s government has privately concluded the Tokyo Olympics will have to be canceled. And that seems to be okay with Japanese citizens, 80% of whom don’t want the Games there, fearing an influx of foreign athletes will spread the virus further.In the United States cases were down 16%, deaths up 14%, and hospitalizations were down 2% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 8th.  There are now 9,674,810 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, New York overtakes Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Webb, TX. Montour, PA. Forest, PA. La Salle, TX. Morgan, KY. Jim Hogg, TX. Richmond, VA. Mills, TX. Hyde, NC. And Hall, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Arizona, South Carolina, West Virginia, and California. There’ve been a total 410,102 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.67%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 740. Texas 463. Pennsylvania 246. Arizona 244. New York 228. Michigan 163. Florida 161. North Carolina 139. Illinois 138. And Tennessee 128. Globally, cases were down 1%, and deaths up 23% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, there are 25,522,371 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 193,758. Brazil 59,946. Spain 44,357. The U.K. 37,892. And France 22,848. There have now been 2,088,783 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 21st, 2021. Several states continue to report they’re running out of vaccine. Tens of thousands who got appointments for the first dose are having those appointments canceled. New shipments go out every week, and both the government and the drug manufacturers have said there are large quantities in the pipeline.Various countries are experiencing surges in new cases, but none more so than Portugal. It has the highest 7-day average rate in the world of new cases per 100,000 and the second-highest rate of new deaths. Health experts predict it will peak next week.In the good news column, a new study from Israel's Sheba Medical Center suggests the Pfizer vaccine does, in fact, reduce transmission. After dose #2, subjects had significantly higher levels of antibodies than even those who recovered from severe COVID-19 infections. It’s preliminary but suggests fully vaccinated people won't shed the virus, meaning pass it on to others.Germany’s leadership says they may have to close its borders if other European countries don’t take steps to stop the spread of the coronavirus, especially the more transmissible strains. Germany shares borders with nine countries. If you were planning a fun trip to sunny Florida to get vaccinated, you may want to reconsider. That state will soon require proof of residency for people getting vaccines. That means a Florida ID or utility bill. When vaccines were opened to anyone 65 and older, it created both long lines and an influx of vaccination tourism. In the United States cases were down 11%, deaths up 12%, and hospitalizations were flat over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 8th. There are now 9,614,365 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Forest, PA. Montour, PA. Morgan, KY. La Salle, TX. Hall, TX. Webb, TX. Richmond, VA. Oldham, KY. Jim Hogg, TX. And Roger Mills, OK. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Arizona, West Virginia, California, and South Carolina. The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Hawaii, Washington, and Arizona. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are West Virginia, Indiana, and Illinois. There’ve been a total 406,001 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.66%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 590. Texas 440. Pennsylvania 405. Arizona 262. New York 240. Georgia 196. Missouri and Alabama 157. Florida 142. And New Jersey 136. Globally, cases were up 1%, and deaths up 20% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11. Globally, there are 25,374,640 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 188,426. Brazil 64,126. Spain 41,576. The U.K. 38,905. And France 26,784. There have now been 2,073,866 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 20th, 2021.The U.S. death toll from the coronavirus has now surpassed 400,000. And more than 100,000 Americans have died in the past five weeks alone. In the U.S., someone now dies from COVID-19 every 26 seconds and it’s claiming more lives weekly than any other condition, including heart disease and cancer.In Los Angeles County, an environmental regulator has temporarily relaxed limits on the number of cremations that can be performed each month. The reason…too many deaths have created a backlog. Crematoriums are typically restricted based on potential air quality impact.Israel’s coronavirus tsar warned one dose of the Pfizer vaccine may be providing less protection than originally hoped and also lower than Pfizer had suggested. However, those who had their second dose had a six- to 12-fold increase in antibodies.Germany is extending its pandemic restrictions, including the closure of schools and non-essential stores, until mid-February. It’s believed new mutations of the coronavirus could trigger a fresh surge. Also, people are required to wear the more effective FFP2 or KN95 masks on public transport and in stores.The supermarket chain Aldi will incentivize U.S. employees to get a vaccine, up to four hours of pay just for rolling up their sleeves. It will also cover associated costs and implement on-site clinics at its warehouse and office locations. Dollar General and Instacart are also paying workers to get the shots.In the United States cases were down 7%, deaths up 21%, and hospitalizations up 2% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 8th. There are now 9,608,626 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, and Georgia.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Forest, PA. Morgan, KY. Montour, PA. Hall, TX. La Salle, TX. Webb, TX. Oldham, KY. Foard, TX. Weston, WY. And Hyde, NC. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, Rhode Island, California, South Carolina, and Oklahoma.The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Hawaii, Washington, and Oklahoma. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are West Virginia, Indiana, and Illinois.There’ve been a total 401,586 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.67%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 651. Texas 332. Georgia 222. New York 216. Florida 167. Indiana 126. Pennsylvania 75. Louisiana 71. Virginia 59. And Ohio 56.Globally, cases were up 5%, and deaths up 21% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11. Globally, there are 25,285,726 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 171,525. Brazil 63,504. Spain 34,291. The U.K. 33,355. And France 23,608.There have now been 2,054,560 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide.For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 19th, 2021. The CDC and FDA are investigating a particular lot of Moderna’s vaccine after California paused distribution after fewer than 10 recipients at a clinic in San Diego experienced severe allergic reactions and required medical attention within 24 hours of being vaccinated. The lot in question included more than 330,000 doses distributed to 287 providers statewide.They get released, but are they better? A study shows nearly a third of people discharged from hospitals in England after being treated for Covid-19 were readmitted within five months – and almost one in eight died. The study also found a higher risk of problems developing in a range of organs after hospital discharge in those under 70 and ethnic minorities.The CDC is making it mandatory starting January 26 that all air travelers entering the US have proof of a negative test taken within three days of their flight. The burden will be placed on airlines to verify passengers’ test results. An independent panel has said Chinese officials could have applied public health measures more forcefully a year ago to curb Covid-19 and criticized the World Health Organization for delays in declaring an international emergency. The experts doing the review called for reforms to the World Health Organization.It looks like Starbucks is going to help its home state of Washington streamline the logistics of its vaccination efforts. No, that does not mean you can get a vaccine with your latte at Starbucks. But the company has assigned 11 employees with expertise in labor and deployment, operations, and research and development to work full time on the rollout.In the United States cases were up 3%, deaths up 26%, and hospitalizations up 3% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 8th. There are now 9,666,071 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Montour, PA. Morgan, KY. Hall, TX. Forest, PA. La Salle, TX. Webb, TX. Val Verde, TX. Hyde, NC. Foard, TX. And Weston, WY.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, Rhode Island, California, Oklahoma, and South Carolina. The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Washington, Virginia, and Kentucky. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are West Virginia, Indiana, and Illinois. There’ve been a total 398,977 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.67%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: New York 160. California 146. Florida 136. Pennsylvania 102. Texas 94. Ohio 80. Connecticut 76. Illinois 68. Georgia 64. And Massachusetts 53. Globally, cases were up 10%, and deaths up 23% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11. Globally, there are 25,329,527 active cases.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 142,022. The U.K. 37,535. Spain 33,800. Brazil 24,139. And Russia 22,857.There have now been 2,039,283 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 18th, 2021. It’s good to have a goal. The U.K. government plans to offer a first dose of COVID-19 vaccine to every adult by September. That’s some 51 million people. They’ll soon start a trial of round the clock injections at some locations as it adds more sites to sites like the historic Salisbury Cathedral, where injections are accompanied by organ music.But how much faith do Brits have in NHS? Polls show public confidence in its ability to manage the pandemic has fallen to its lowest level since the outbreak began. Only 60% think it can care properly for those with Covid-19. The proportion who aren’t confident has risen to 35%.Eyes are on Israel as that country has vaccinated at least 25% of its population so far. That makes it the best place to see if any level of herd immunity results. Infectious disease expert David Fishman says the case rate there appears to have declined sharply, but more studies need to be done on if the vaccine is the direct cause.Business Today reports scientists working at the Wuhan Institute of Virology lab confessed that Covid-19 infected bats bit them while they were collecting samples in a cave. One researcher said one bat's fangs went through his rubber gloves like a needle. A World Health Organization team is in China now investigating the virus’ origins.Infamous music producer, Phil Spector has died from Covid-related complications in prison where he was serving 19 years to life for murder. Sources say he was diagnosed 4 weeks ago, was moved to a hospital, but sent back to prison where he later relapsed. Among groups he produced, The Righteous Brothers, Ike & Tina Turner, The Beatles and John Lennon. He was 81.In the United States cases were up 9%, deaths up 27%, and hospitalizations up 5% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 8th.  There are now 9,646,497 active cases in the United States. The current top 5 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, and Georgia. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Morgan, KY. Hall, TX. Forest, PA. La Salle, TX. Montour, PA. Hyde, NC. Webb, TX. Val Verde, TX. Randolph, WV. And Foard, TX. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, California, Rhode Island, Oklahoma, and Texas. The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Washington, Hawaii, and Kentucky. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are West Virginia, Illinois, and Indiana. There’ve been a total 397,561 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.67%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 209. New York 204. California 201. Florida 132. South Carolina 129. Louisiana 123. Pennsylvania 121. Massachusetts 69. North Carolina 67. And Ohio 65. Globally, cases were up 14%, and deaths up 22% over 14 days. The 7-day average of new cases has been trending down since January 11.  Globally, there are now over 25 million active cases, at 25,273,346.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 174,560. The U.K. 38,598. Brazil 31,394. Russia 23,586. And Mexico 20,523. There have now been over 2 million deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide, at 2,029,938. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 15th, 2021.About 17.3 million doses of vaccines have been distributed in the U.S., but only about 6 million people have gotten the first dose. West Virginia has the largest portion of its population vaccinated at 5.16%. At the other end of the spectrum, Mississippi has the lowest at 1.24%, closely followed by Alabama and Georgia at 1.28% each.A rapid expansion of vaccinations to senior citizens is good news, right? But it’s also led to bottlenecks, system crashes, and anger. Mississippi's Health Department stopped taking new appointments the same day it started because of a “monumental surge” in requests. South Carolina ran out of appointment slots within hours. And phone lines are jammed beyond capacity in Georgia.Microsoft, Oracle and healthcare companies Cigna and Mayo Clinic are part of a coalition pushing for digital records of those who get vaccinated. It’s called the Vaccination Credential Initiative and the idea is to let people get encrypted digital copies of their immunization records stored in a digital wallet of their choice. No smartphone? You’d get a paper QR code.A mutated strain of the coronavirus thought to have originated in the United States has been discovered in Ohio. It appears to have become the dominant version of the virus spreading in Columbus. More study is needed but infectious disease experts expected more emerging new strains.In Britain, critics are outraged at the altering of rules to allow coronavirus patients who’ve completed 14 days isolation without showing symptoms to move right into care homes from hospitals without being re-tested. It’s believed these individuals do not pose an infection risk.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Morgan, KY. Forest, PA. Jasper, TX. Barbour, WV. Tyler, TX. Henderson, TX. Montour, PA. Kinney, TX. Carter, OK. And Stonewall, TX. There are now 9,338,297 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Georgia, Texas, Virginia, Missouri, Maryland, and Colorado. The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, Oklahoma, California, Rhode Island, and Utah.The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Washington, Georgia, Wyoming, Arizona, and Arkansas. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are South Dakota, West Virginia, Tennessee, North Dakota, and Indiana.There’ve been a total 388,529 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.68%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 639. Texas 415. Pennsylvania 288. New York 264. Florida 217. Alabama 185. Arizona 182. Michigan 175. Georgia 172. And Illinois 107. Globally, there are 24,717,818 active cases.There were 751,664 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 785,681 January 8th.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 230,457. Brazil 68,656. The U.K. 48,682. Spain 35,878. And Russia 24,763.There have now been 1,993,146 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 28% over 14 days. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 14th, 2021. Coronavirus deaths in the U.S. hit another one-day high at over 4,300. The nation’s overall death toll is closing in fast on the number of Americans killed in World War II, which is about 407,000. California is expanding who can get the vaccine, and it now includes residents 65 and older. The goal is to administer an additional 1 million doses by the end of the week. And to that end, 36,000 dentists were added to the pool of personnel allowed to administer the vaccines.Speaking of California, Los Angeles County Health Services released a report showing approximately 1 in 3 people in that county has been infected since the start of the pandemic. That’s assuming though that not everyone who’s had the virus had a laboratory-confirmed case.With vaccines in the market and teachers starting to get that vaccine, state leaders are increasingly pushing for schools to reopen. There is however still resistance from top education officials and reminders the U.S. is in the midst of the worst surge.While there are some manufacturing issues, some good news about Johnson & Johnson’s one-dose vaccine. Trial data published yesterday shows it’s safe and appears to generate a promising immune response in both young and elderly volunteers. The trial showed one shot “gives sustainable antibodies.” The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Morgan, KY. Barbour, WV. Jasper, TX. Tyler, TX. Crane, TX. Hyde, NC. Stonewall, TX. Montour, PA. Carter, OK. And Osborne, KS.  There are now 9,247,381 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Georgia, Texas, Virginia, Missouri, Maryland, and Colorado.   The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Massachusetts, Arizona, Arkansas, Utah, and California. The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Washington, Georgia, Wyoming, Hawaii, and Arizona. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are New Hampshire, Montana, West Virginia, Tennessee, and Idaho. There’ve been a total 384,634 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.68%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 535. Texas 381. Pennsylvania 363. Arizona 191. Alabama 187. New York 168. Florida 166. Georgia 141. Tennessee 137. And Illinois 120.  Globally, there are 24,493,130 active cases.There were 699,567 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 785,681 January 8th. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 236,462. Brazil 61,822. The U.K. 47,525. Spain 38,869. And France 23,852. There have now been 1,976,509 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 29% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 13th, 2021. In the U.S., more vaccine is coming and coming faster. The government will base each state's allocation partly on how successful they’ve been at administering what was already provided. The government will stop holding back second doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, practically doubling supply. And Washington is urging states to immediately start vaccinating groups further down the priority scale.CDC officials also announced that in two weeks, anyone flying to the U.S. will need to show proof of a negative test for COVID-19. The new measures are to try to prevent travelers from bringing in newer forms of the virus and applies to U.S. citizens as well. Initial data from Israel’s vaccination campaign shows Pfizer’s vaccine curbs infections by around 50% 14 days after the first of two shots is administered. Israel’s vaccination campaign is regarded as being among one of the most efficient so this could be the best and earliest indication of effectiveness.Disneyland is reopening! But not as an amusement park, as a “super” vaccination site. It will be one of several such places where thousands daily will be able to get vaccinated. Other locations include Dodger Stadium, San Diego's Petco Park, and Sacramento's Cal Expo. Disney World in Florida, which is open, is also considering offering itself as a mass vaccination locale. Research in England suggests nearly half of ICU staff are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, severe depression, or anxiety. And those finding were based off surveys after the first wave of the virus and since then there are now 50% more patients than in April. One in five ICU nurses even reported thoughts of self-harm or suicide.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Morgan, KY. Jasper, TX. Barbour, WV. Tyler, TX. Crane, TX. Hyde, NC. Kinney, TX. Stonewall, TX. Newton, TX. And Sabine, TX.  There are now 9,162,598 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Texas, Missouri, Maryland, and Colorado.   The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Massachusetts, Arizona, Arkansas, Utah, and California. The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Washington, Georgia, New Jersey, Arizona, and Oklahoma. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are New Hampshire, Tennessee, South Dakota, Maine, and West Virginia. There’ve been a total 380,555 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.67%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 604. Arizona 335. Texas 305. Pennsylvania 229. Alabama 226. New York 208. Georgia 187. New Jersey 173. Florida 156. And Tennessee 146. Globally, there are 24,217,506 active cases.There were 625,815 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 785,681 January 8th. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 222,121. Brazil 61,804. The U.K. 45,533. Spain 25,438. And Russia 22,934. There have now been 1,961,130 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 28% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 12th, 2021. The United States lost more than 22,000 lives to COVID-19 last week, a record for the second week in a row. California had the most deaths at 3,315 in the week ended January 10, up 44% from the prior week. Arizona had the highest death rate per capita at 15 per 100,000 residents, followed by Rhode Island at 13 and West Virginia at 12 deaths per 100,000.The World Health Organization’s chief scientist said you can pretty much forget herd immunity this year, even with vaccines rolling out. The advice is to maintain strict social distancing and other outbreak control measures for the foreseeable future. An international trial testing convalescent blood plasma on COVID-19 patients has stopped enrolling severely ill patients requiring intensive care because it found the treatment had no benefit. Tests are still being done on the moderately ill. Just who is it that doesn’t want the vaccine? Research appearing in the journal Social Science & Medicine found that Black people were 41% less likely to pursue vaccination, and women were 71% more likely to pass on the vaccine. The study’s authors say that second statistic is frightening because women make 80% of healthcare decisions for their entire families.Several gorillas at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park have tested positive. It’s the first known cases among great apes in the United States and maybe the world. Eight gorillas that live together at the park are believed to have the virus and several have been coughing. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Morgan, KY. Jasper, TX. Tyler, TX. Barbour, WV. Kinney, TX. Crane, TX. Stonewall, TX. Hyde, NC. Newton, TX. And Sabine, TX.  There are now 9,077,487 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Texas, Missouri, Maryland, and Colorado.   The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are West Virginia, Arizona, Massachusetts, Tennessee, and Utah. The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Washington, Georgia, New Jersey, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Montana, Ohio, Michigan, Tennessee, and South Dakota. There’ve been a total 376,051 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.68%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 385. New York 216. Florida 155. Texas 111. Connecticut 92. Pennsylvania 90. Kansas 88. Tennessee 80. Ohio 75. And Illinois 70. Globally, there are 24,074,087 active cases.There were 599,447 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 785,681 on January 8th. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 214,683. The U.K. 46,169. Brazil 28,043. Spain 24,631. And Russia 23,315. There have now been 1,943,943 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 28% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New research suggests Pfizer’s vaccine can indeed protect against two easier-to-spread variants of the coronavirus that erupted in the U.K. and South Africa. What makes it more contagious is a slight alteration on one spot of the spike protein that coats the virus. But most vaccines train the body to recognize that spike and fight it. Don’t like shots? How about a nasal spray? The first UK clinical trials of a nasal spray proven to kill 99.9% of the coronavirus start today. The spray is designed to kill the virus in the upper airways of the nose so it can’t incubate and spread to the lungs.The Bay Area has extended its stay-at-home order indefinitely as ICU capacity remains extremely low and new cases surge. The order was meant to expire Friday, but ICU capacity is at 13.7% and dropping.Believe it or not, there are hospitals, health centers and pharmacies where vials of vaccine are being thrown away. The President of the Institute for Family Health said, "We all thought the real problem was going to be a shortage.” Last week, nurses in Harlem literally roamed the neighborhood looking for people eligible to get a vaccine because the health care workers they were supposed to go to skipped their appointments.The U.K. was not kidding when they said they would enforce lockdown restrictions. A video surfaced showing no less than four police officers handcuffing a woman and taking her away for sitting on a bench outside. A statement said there is no specific rule on the number of warnings officers should give before taking action.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Morgan, KY. Jasper, TX. Tyler, TX. Barbour, WV. Braxton, WV. Kinney, TX. Stonewall, TX. Crane, TX. Southampton, VA. And Bethel Census Area, AK. There are now over 9 million active cases in the United States at 9,050,569. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Georgia, Texas overtakes Virginia, then Missouri, Maryland, and Colorado.   The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are West Virginia, Arizona, Massachusetts, Tennessee, and Utah. The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Georgia, Washington, Wisconsin, Louisiana, and New Jersey. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are South Dakota, Michigan, West Virginia, Alaska, and Colorado. There’ve been a total 374,072 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.69%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 283. Texas 157. New York 145. North Carolina 142. Florida 106. Arizona 105. Pennsylvania 95. Illinois 83. Tennessee 81. And Massachusetts 77. Globally, there are 23,935,269 active cases.There were 725,999 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 785,681 January 8th. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 213,453. The U.K. 54,940. Brazil 29,792. Russia 22,851. And Italy 18,627. There have now been 1,934,096 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 27% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 8th, 2021. The U.S. registered more COVID-19 deaths in a single day than ever before — nearly 3,900. The virus is surging in several states, with California hit particularly hard, reporting yesterday a record two-day total of 1,042 deaths. December was by far the deadliest month yet, and experts expect January to be worse due to holiday gatherings.For Europe, the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of a “tipping point” in the fight as cases surge and new mutations spread. Currently, more than 230 million people are living in countries that are under full national lockdown, with more governments expected to announce lockdowns in the next week. It’s quickly becoming a treasured commodity. Oxygen. In Los Angeles the systems and equipment needed to deliver it are wobbling. Paramedics have been told to conserve it. And some hospitals can’t release patients because they don’t have the oxygen equipment to send home with them.Some good news. Two more life-saving drugs have been found that can cut deaths by a fourth in patients sickest with Covid. They’re anti-inflammatories given with an IV drip. Supplies are generally readily available and can be used immediately. U.K. researchers say the treatments speed recovery and reduce how long critically ill patients spend in ICU by about a week.Police in Britain say in this new lockdown they will fine citizens the very first time they’re caught without a mask. Also, anyone leaving home without an acceptable excuse will face the same zero-tolerance approach and police will be accepting far fewer excuses.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bethel Census Area, AK. Kusilvak Census Area, AK. Braxton, WV. Bent, CO. Crane, TX. Rooks, KS. Montour, PA. Hyde, NC. Anderson, TX. And Jim Hogg, TX. There are now 8,614,604 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Texas, Missouri, Maryland, and Colorado.   The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are West Virginia, Arizona, Massachusetts, California, and Tennessee. The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Georgia, Iowa, Virginia, Louisiana, and New York. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Oregon, Oklahoma, Alaska, Nevada, and South Dakota. There’ve been a total 365,174 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.70%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 488. Texas 367. Arizona 297. New York 261. Pennsylvania 254. Illinois and Michigan 206. Florida 159. North Carolina 137. And Tennessee 111. Globally, there are 23,982,484 active cases.There were 785,681 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours and that is a new all-time record. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 274,190. Brazil 87,134. The U.K. 52,618. Germany 28,078. And Russia 23,541. There have now been 1,897,568 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Down 5% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 7th, 2021. The CDC says it’s carefully monitoring the rising number of allergic reactions to the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. They say if you did have a serious reaction, do not get the second dose. Reactions are occurring at a rate of 11.1 per million vaccinations compared to only 1.3 per million with flu shots.The worst-case scenario forecast by experts appears to be happening. The U.S. set a new record for hospitalizations Wednesday as it averaged 219,684 new cases a day in the past week. The new variant of the virus is showing up in more and more states. Some predict an additional 10 million infections in the U.S. between now and end of February.Vaccine distribution problems may lead to good news for you. The HHS Secretary is advising states if doses will otherwise just sit around in freezers, they can go ahead and vaccinate lower-priority groups. About 17.3 million doses have gone out to states, but only 5.3 million have been administered.CBS News reports Houston Methodist Hospital is giving $500 to employees if they take both doses of a vaccine. It’s being called a thank you bonus for their hard work during the pandemic but…getting the vaccine is a requirement to get the money. Since December 15 about 55% of the employees have gotten the first dose. Remember when finding a Covid-19 test was difficult? Students at the UC San Diego campus are required to test weekly, so nearly a dozen Covid test vending machines have been set up around campus. Tests are free and self-administered with drop boxes at each machine.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bethel Census Area, AK. Bent, CO. Kusilvak Census Area, AK. Braxton, WV. Rooks, KS. Montour, PA. Hall, TX. Hyde, NC. Cottle, TX. And Perry, IL. There are now 8,463,484 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Texas, Missouri, Maryland, and Colorado.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are West Virginia, New Jersey, California, and Tennessee. The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Iowa, New York, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Oklahoma, Oregon, Alaska, Wisconsin, and Michigan. There’ve been a total 360,999 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.71%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 562. Pennsylvania 373. Texas 329. Illinois 173. New York 170. Florida 132. Kansas 130. Arizona 127. New Jersey 124. And Ohio 121. Globally, there are 23,617,816 active cases.There were 744,044 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 260,973. Brazil 62,532. The U.K. 62,622. Germany 26,651. And France 25,379. There have now been 1,881,926 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Down 3% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 6th, 2021. In Los Angeles, ambulances are backed up to admit new patients to hospitals for up to eight hours. Patients in ICUs have more than quadrupled since the first of November. EMTs have now been instructed not to bring people with little chance of survival into hospitals and to conserve oxygen in the field.To figure out why England has gone into lockdown, consider that one in 50 people in private households there are estimated to have had the coronavirus in the week ending January 2. And that’s not counting people in hospitals, care homes or other institutional settings.Former FDA chief Dr. Scott Gottlieb warned the new South Africa mutation is concerning because it appears to inhibit antibody drugs. This ability to evade prior immunity means antibodies Covid survivors might have, as well as antibody drugs, may not be as effective.Germany has extended that country’s current lockdown by three weeks until Jan. 31 and tightening curbs on social contacts. They’ve also called for new restrictions on movement for people in areas with high infection rates. And even though Israel’s being hailed for its effective vaccine rollout, it’s locking down a third time. It’s being blamed on the faster spreading U.K. strain of the virus. The head of the World Health Organization is disappointed Chinese officials still have not finalized permission for a team of experts to go there and examine the origins of COVID-19. It’s a rare critique of Beijing by that organization and he made it clear this mission is a priority. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pershing, NV. Bethel Census Area, AK. Kusilvak Census Area, AK. Bent, CO. Montour, PA. Braxton, WV. Rooks, KS. Pecos, TX. Perry, IL. And Adams, IL. There are now 8,350,770 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Texas, Missouri, Maryland, and Colorado.   The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, West Virginia, Utah, Kansas, and New Jersey.  The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in New York, Florida, South Carolina, New Jersey, and Washington. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Wisconsin, Oregon, Michigan, Montana, and Minnesota. There’ve been a total 357,156 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.71%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 433. Texas 277. Arizona 253. Michigan 217. Pennsylvania 187. New York 157. Illinois 150. Indiana 149. New Jersey 120. And Florida 110. Globally, there are 23,425,674 active cases.There were 570,738 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 225,558. The U.K. 60,916. Brazil 57,447. Russia 24,246. And France 20,489. There have now been 1,867,585 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Down 3% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 5th, 2021. Boris Johnson put the U.K. back into lockdown amid warnings NHS could fail to cope with soaring infection rates. England’s schools are closed, and people have been ordered to stay home. The goal is to get shots to 13.9 million at highest risk by mid-February. That’s when the restrictions can start easing. The lockdowns risk devastating businesses and another recession. New York and Florida are getting ready to punish hospitals who aren’t distributing the vaccines they’ve been given. More than two-thirds of the 15 million vaccines shipped within the United States have so far gone unused. Punishments could include a fine and a reduction in future supplies. A message from BioNTech and Pfizer about their vaccine…they have no evidence it will keep protecting against COVID-19 if the booster shot is given later than what was tested in trials. The booster is to be given three weeks after the prime shot. If it’s given later than that, as some countries like Germany, Denmark, and Britain are considering, the companies have no evidence of effectiveness. In our podcast, we compare states with states and countries with countries. But Arizona currently not only leads every other state with the highest seven-day average of infections per capita, it alone leads every region in the world. And it’s the second time that’s happened. There are many ways to distribute a vaccine. But Bulgaria might have one of the more unique among them. Transport by the manufacturers of the first doses wasn’t available and since the vaccine has to stay at a certain temperature, it was delivered by a hot dog truck. With a police escort.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pershing, NV. Bethel Census Area, AK. Kusilvak Census Area, AK. Bent, CO. Braxton, WV. Montour, PA. Rooks, KS. Pecos, TX. Lassen, CA. And Labette, KS. There are now 8,254,416 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Texas, Missouri, Maryland, and Colorado.   The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, West Virginia, Utah, Kansas, and New Jersey.  The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, New York, Florida, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Wisconsin, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Minnesota, and Wyoming. There’ve been a total 353,388 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.72%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 362. New York 193. Tennessee 143. Florida 103. Texas 99. Illinois and Pennsylvania 90. Michigan 85. Connecticut 69. And Ohio 67. Globally, there are 23,187,402 active cases.There were 616,328 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 190,165. The U.K. 58,784. Russia 23,351. Brazil 20,814. And India 16,278. There have now been 1,852,208 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Down 3% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 4th, 2021. Coronavirus lets no good deed go unpunished. 44 staff members so far tested positive at Kaiser Permanente’s San Jose Medical Center. The hospital believes a fan on an "air-powered costume" may have spread droplets after a staffer briefly wore it in the ER Christmas Day. They were trying to lift the spirits of those having to work on Christmas.The numbers are starting to come in and so far, the countries that are vaccinating fastest are Israel and the U.K. France and the Netherlands are among the slowest. In the U.S., the fastest vaccinators are North and South Dakota, while the five slowest are Kansas, Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, and Arizona.  They’re doing a good job of vaccinating in the U.K., but England is reeling with infections. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned more onerous lockdown restrictions are likely. School closures, curfews, and a total ban on household mixing could be on the agenda. Meanwhile Japan is considering declaring a state of emergency for the Greater Tokyo area. Canada is quite serious about its quarantine rules for travelers. Health Canada warned “violating any instructions is an offence under the Quarantine Act.” Failing to quarantine 14 days could result in “up to six months in prison and/or $750,000 in fines.”Legendary cable news interviewer Larry King is among those hospitalized with Covid-19 and he’s been there more than a week. King is 87 and is at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles. His family members have not been allowed to visit.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pershing, NV. Bent, CO. Montour, PA. Kusilvak Census Area, AK. Bethel Census Area, AK. Rooks, KS. Lassen, CA. Pecos, TX. Labette, KS. And Chautauqua, KS. There are now over 8 million active cases in the United States, at 8,316,492. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Georgia surpasses Virginia, then Texas, Missouri, Maryland, and Colorado.   The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Arizona, Kansas, New Jersey, Utah, and Wisconsin.  The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, Iowa, New York, Hawaii, and Maryland. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Alaska, North Dakota, Wyoming, Wisconsin, and Oklahoma. There’ve been a total 351,453 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.73%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: New York 125. Illinois 114. Massachusetts 108. California 102. Florida 97. South Carolina 84. Indiana 65. Pennsylvania 61. Ohio 59. And Texas 57. Globally, there are now over 23 million active cases, at 23,198,998.There were 615,047 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 194,337. The U.K. 54,990. Russia 24,150. Brazil 17,341. And India 16,660. There have now been 1,842,590 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Down 3% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for January 1st, 2021. An error at a West Virginia clinic led to 42 people being given Covid-19 antibodies instead of the vaccine. State health officials do not think there’s a risk of harm. They said it was an isolated incident but could not explain how the mix-up happened. Distribution is being run by the National Guard.A suburban Milwaukee pharmacist was arrested suspected of deliberately ruining hundreds of doses of vaccine by leaving them out of refrigeration for two nights. The pharmacist has been fired and is in jail awaiting formal charges. The destroyed doses were worth between $8,000 and $11,000.A consensus is growing that the vaccination effort in America is slower and messier than anticipated. Overworked, underfunded state health departments are scrambling to patch together plans for administering vaccines. And differences in how counties and hospitals do that are generating long lines, confusion, and jammed phone lines.Healthcare workers in Ohio are prioritized to get a vaccine but some don’t want anything to do with it. About 60% of nursing home staff have elected not to take it. Ohio’s governor said, “We’re not going to make them, but we wish we had a higher compliance. The train may not be coming back for a while.”84-year-old Oscar-winning actor Louis Gossett, Jr. tested positive for Covid and was taken to a Georgia-area hospital when he could no longer stand. He was put in an area with other Covid patients, stayed two days, then left after being freaked out by the number of deaths around him. Staff begged him to stay, given his age and underlying conditions including cancer, but he’s now recovering at home. It’s said he’s not out of the woods yet by a long shot. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pershing, NV. Pleasants, WV. Glasscock, TX. Montour, PA. Bent, CO. Oldham, TX. Pecos, TX. Montgomery, IL. Audrain, MO. And Lassen, CA. There are now 7,965,633 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Virginia, Georgia, Texas, Missouri, Maryland, and Colorado.   The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Dakota, New Jersey, Arizona, California, and Wisconsin.  The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, New York, Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Alaska, Wisconsin, Oregon, North Dakota, and Wyoming. There’ve been a total 345,736 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.75%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 580. Texas 329. Pennsylvania 293. Illinois 167. Arizona 146. New York 139. Florida 125. Ohio 108. Indiana 103. And Tennessee 97. Globally, there are 22,659,240 active cases.There were 738,477 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 228,413. Brazil 56,003. The U.K. 55,892. Russia 27,747. And Italy 23,477. There have now been 1,817,531 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Down 6% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 31st, 2020. It looks like the U.K. mutation of the coronavirus is establishing firm footing in the U.S. Two states, Colorado and California, now have confirmed cases of a strain that’s said to be even more contagious. In Colorado, both cases are National Guard soldiers who were support staff at a nursing home. So far none of the cases had a recent travel history. Canada's quarantine rules are likely about to get tougher. The country’s already requiring negative Covid tests before anyone is allowed into the country, and they’re asking residents to avoid all non-essential travel outside of Canada. Canada already required those entering the country to self-isolate 14 days and all flights from the U.K. had been banned.Vaccinations come in a series of two shots, but those in the U.K. are being told that second one is going to be delayed. More than 500,000 people will have to wait for up to 12 weeks for round two as the NHS rethinks the rollout.In this report, we tell you the hotspots. But is there any good news in any state? Yes. Six of them. Oregon’s infection rate has dropped 32% over the last two weeks. Minnesota really turned things around with an infection rate drop of 60% and a death rate drop of 34%. Hawaii, Colorado, and Iowa saw death rate drops of 50-75% in recent weeks. And the picture looks brighter in Vermont, although that state currently has a top 5 transmission rate.Dawn Wells, who played Mary Ann on “Gilligan’s Island,” died yesterday of causes related to COVID-19 in Los Angeles. She was 82.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pershing, NV. Montour, PA. Pleasants, WV. Glasscock, TX. Bent, CO. Oldham, TX. Pecos, TX. Woods, OK. Lassen, CA. And Montgomery, IL. There are now 7,867,419 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Virginia, Georgia overtakes Texas, Missouri, Maryland, and Colorado.   The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Texas, California, Tennessee, Wisconsin, and Rhode Island.  The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, Tennessee, Florida, New York, and Vermont. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Alaska, Wisconsin, Oregon, North Dakota, and Washington. There’ve been a total 342,312 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.75%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 427. Pennsylvania 335. Texas 314. Illinois 215. New York and Kansas 193. New Jersey 189. North Carolina 155. And Florida and Ohio 134. Globally, there are 22,383,914 active cases.There were 681,655 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 234,550. Brazil 55,853. The U.K. 50,023. Russia 26,513. And France 26,457. There have now been 1,804,138 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Down 7% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 30th, 2020. The first case in the U.S. of the variant first seen in the United Kingdom has been reported in Colorado. It was a man in his 20s with no travel history. There’s also a second suspected case who worked in the same county as the first man. California's top health official extended strict stay-home orders in areas where ICU’s have few beds. He said while hospital and positivity rates appear to be stabilizing from a Thanksgiving surge, that’s not the case in Southern California, including Los Angeles County.Yesterday we told you about revised fatality numbers in Russia. Today it’s China. A study from the Chinese CDC shows nearly half a million residents in Wuhan may have been infected. That’s almost 10 times the official number of confirmed cases there.This is not what you want to hear. The World Health Organization says the coronavirus pandemic is “not necessarily the big one” and the world will have to live with Covid-19 as it becomes endemic even with vaccines. Professor David Heymann says Covid-19, like other human coronaviruses, will continue to mutate.We told you of the Tyson Foods managers in Waterloo, Iowa who were fired for betting on how many of their workers would get COVID-19. Well one is now speaking out in an attempt to clear their names and prove they aren’t evil people. His defense, the office pool was spontaneous fun meant to boost morale.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Pleasants, WV. Glasscock, TX. Montour, PA. Bent, CO. Oldham, TX. Richmond, VA. Lassen, CA. Montgomery, IL. Woods, OK. And Chase NE. There are now 7,786,653 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Virginia, Texas, Georgia, Missouri, Illinois, and Maryland surpasses Colorado.   The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Texas, California, Tennessee, Wisconsin, and Rhode Island.  The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, West Virginia, Florida, Georgia, and New York. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Alaska, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Michigan. There’ve been a total 338,544 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.75%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Pennsylvania 285. Texas 271. Michigan 212. California 203. Arizona 171. Indiana 165. New York 163. Ohio 149. Illinois 126. And Tennessee 122. Globally, there are 22,194,433 active cases.There were 490,470 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 194,860. Brazil 57,227. The U.K. 53,135. Russia 27,002. And India 20,529. There have now been 1,788,731 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Down 4% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 29th, 2020. Novavax, a once-struggling company rescued by $2 billion in funding for its vaccine candidate at last started its U.S. efficacy trial. It was postponed several times as the company struggled to scale up manufacturing. Despite a nearly 30-year history making vaccines, Novavax has never won regulatory approval. Here, we regularly report the numbers. But the numbers as they are provided by various countries. Russia has now acknowledged its death toll was more than three times higher than reported. That quickly makes it the country with the third-largest number of fatalities.Over the past week, almost 100,000 coronavirus cases have been reported in Los Angeles County. At one hospital five overflow tents are outside, and patients are being put in the gift shop, a chapel, and a conference room. The County Public Health Director said there’ve been 97,472 new cases over the past seven days and it’s expected to get worse. We’ve heard of those who’ve been vaccinated being able to carry proof of some sort. Spain is looking at it another way. They’re considering keeping a list of citizens who refuse to be vaccinated. Getting the shot will be voluntary, but if you don’t volunteer, you’d go on the list.A new study in the U.K. suggests healthcare workers are seven times more likely to develop severe cases of COVID-19 than people in “nonessential” roles. People in social care and education job roles had an 84% higher risk.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Glasscock, TX. Montour, PA. Pleasants, WV. Bent, CO. Oldham, TX. Richmond, VA. Montgomery, IL. Woods, OK. Hudspeth, TX. And Bradford, FL. There are now 7,741,715 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Virginia, Texas, Georgia, Missouri, Illinois, and Colorado.  The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Texas, Tennessee, California, Oklahoma, and Alabama. The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, West Virginia, Hawaii, South Carolina, and Idaho. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Alaska, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Montana. There’ve been a total 334,830 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.76%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 245. New York 169. Illinois 134. Texas 126. Connecticut 113. Florida 96. Pennsylvania 85. Tennessee 76. Michigan 64. And Ohio 62. Globally, there are 22,092,340 active cases.There were 447,539 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 186,296. The U.K. 41,385. Russia 27,787. Brazil 22,605. India 16,072. There have now been 1,774,130 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Down 6% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 28th, 2020. European Union countries kicked off their coordinated effort to vaccinate millions. Cases of the new variant were confirmed in several European countries, including Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. All linked to people who arrived from the U.K. More than 40% of England’s population is now living in Tier 4 restrictions.December has been the nation's deadliest month since the start of the pandemic, with more than 63,000 Americans lost in the past 26 days. November saw about 36,964 deaths. Both President-Elect Biden and Dr. Anthony Fauci have said the darkest days are ahead of us, with Fauci anticipating a "surge upon a surge." But, there are the vaccines. And the head of AstraZeneca said researchers believe its shot will be effective against the new variant behind the rapid surge in Britain. He also said they’ve figured out a “winning formula” making the shot as effective as rival candidates.New York Health officials are investigating a Brooklyn-based healthcare provider for possibly violating state vaccine distribution guidelines. A statement says ParCare Community Health Network "may have fraudulently obtained vaccine, transferred it to facilities and diverted it contrary to the plan to administer first to frontline healthcare workers, as well as nursing home residents and staffers.”As if we needed coronavirus to generate more problems, the World Health Organization says a mutant, more powerful strain of gonorrhea is spreading worldwide, partly because the pandemic has more people on antibiotics and limited access to healthcare. This new “super gonorrhea” has apparently become resistant to antibiotics that normally could have handled it. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Glasscock, TX. Pleasants, WV. Montour, PA. Bent, CO. Oldham, TX. Perry, IL. Richmond, VA. Montgomery, IL. Hudspeth, TX. And Lawrence, IL. There are now 7,736,834 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Virginia, Texas, Georgia, Missouri, Illinois, and Colorado.   The five states with the highest risk levels and most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Texas, Tennessee, California, Oklahoma, and Alabama. The infection reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, West Virginia, Hawaii, South Carolina, and Idaho. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Alaska, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Montana. There’ve been a total 333,115 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.76%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Pennsylvania 124. New York 117. Illinois 112. Massachusetts 100. Florida 78. Tennessee 69. Texas 58. Indiana 42. And Arkansas and Mississippi with 41. Globally, there are now over 22 million active cases, at 22,079,007.There were 510,505 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 127,740. The U.K. 30,501. Russia 28,284. India 20,333. And Brazil 18,479. There have now been 1,764,317 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Down 6% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 25th, 2020. Lots of fear about what the Christmas holiday will bring, especially in California. The state passed 2 million cases Christmas Eve and that’s before the effect of Americans traveling and gathering hits. Even with vaccines at least one coronavirus model projects the US death toll will top 567,000 by April 1.The chief scientific adviser for Operation Warp Speed said the frequency of allergic reactions to the Pfizer vaccine is higher than what would be expected for other vaccines. Discussions are underway between the vaccine makers and the NIH about holding clinical trials of vaccines in very allergic populations.Another new variant of the coronavirus appears to have emerged in Nigeria. Add that to variants already announced in Britain and South Africa. The mutations are leading to the swift return of international travel restrictions and other measures. Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country.Mexico started administering the first 3,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine. The country's 1.4 million health workers will be first in line, followed by the elderly, those with underlying health conditions, and teachers. Mexico was the first country in Latin America to get the vaccine.Two newly opened In-N-Out Burger restaurants in Colorado both had active outbreaks with 80 employees testing positive. The locations are in Aurora and Colorado Springs. Neither had allowed indoor dining and the state has not linked any customers to either outbreak. Both restaurants remain open.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bent, CO. Montour, PA. Crowley, CO. Richmond, VA. La Salle, TX. Lassen, CA. Lawrence, IL. Perry, IL. Dawson, MT. And Guadalupe, NM. There are now 7,555,137 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Virginia surpasses Illinois, Texas, Missouri, Georgia, and Colorado.   The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Tennessee, Texas, California, Rhode Island, and Oklahoma.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, West Virginia, Oklahoma, New Hampshire, and Hawaii. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Alaska, North Dakota, Washington, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. There’ve been a total 329,022 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.78%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 306. Pennsylvania 258. Texas 242. New York 130. Florida 121. Illinois 118. Arizona 115. Ohio 95. Alabama 89. And Colorado 88. Globally, there are 21,852,944 active cases.There were 690,370 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 193,030. Brazil 58,916. The U.K. 39,036. Russia 29,935. And Germany 26,418. There have now been 1,741,501 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 7% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 24th, 2020. Pfizer and BioNTech will supply the U.S. with an additional 100 million doses of their vaccine under a second agreement. They expect to deliver all that by July 31. The Health and Human Services Secretary said this can give people confidence “we will have enough supply to vaccinate every American who wants it by June 2021.”So far in the U.S., more than 1 million people have received their first shot of a Covid-19 vaccine. And the CDC says that number is low because recent figures haven’t been tabulated. Health officials like Dr. Anthony Fauci warn most Americans won't get vaccinated until next year, so vigilance needs to continue. Canada’s health regulator authorized a second vaccine yesterday, the one from Moderna. They have ruled it to be safe, so shipments were expected to start within 48 hours.  First there was a new strain in the U.K., now South Africa. In fact, two cases of the South African strain have been detected in the U.K. Scientists in South Africa believe the strain is likely more transmissible, may hit young people harder, and may be slightly more resistant to vaccines. But research is ongoing. In England, hospitals expect to be treating more patients on Christmas Day than at any other point in the pandemic. And there’s overall concern about NHS’ ability to cope with the surge over the course of winter. The projected number of hospitalizations on Christmas, 18,974.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bent, CO. Guadalupe, NM. Crowley, CO. Dawson, MT. Lassen, CA. San Bernardino, CA. Lawrence, IL. Perry, IL. Glascock, GA. And Perry, TN. There are now 7,481,068 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Illinois, Virginia, Texas, Missouri, Georgia, and Colorado.  The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Tennessee, California, Rhode Island, Oklahoma, and Indiana.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, West Virginia, Oklahoma, New Hampshire, and Hawaii. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Alaska, New Jersey, North Dakota, Wyoming, and Washington.There’ve been a total 326,088 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 350. Texas 255. Pennsylvania 222. Illinois 171. New York 148. New Jersey 139. Alabama 135. Missouri 127. Florida 123. And Tennessee 111. Globally, there are 21,668,619 active cases.There were 642,206 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 232,342. Brazil 46,657. The U.K. 39,237. Germany 31,297. And Russia 27,250. There have now been 1,729,166 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 7% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 23rd, 2020. The CEO of BioNTech says they’re confident its vaccine does work against the new UK variant, but more studies are needed. Also there is no indication yet the new mutation causes more serious illness.Still, this new variant is having an impact on other nations. France is letting traffic from the UK back in if drivers have a recent negative test. Three flights from the UK landed in Mumbai yesterday and so far, 15 passengers were found to have the new strain. One nation not imposing screenings for passengers from Britain, the United States. Last week in the United States, someone died from COVID-19 every 33 seconds. More than 18,000 lives in seven days and up 6.7% from the prior week according to Reuters. And hospitals are preparing for more as people continue to holiday travel; 3.2 million people were screened at U.S. airports Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.There is now no longer any continent in the world that doesn’t have Covid-19. Antarctica has recorded its first case after 36 people tested positive on a Chilean research base.Here’s what’s not in demand. Monoclonal antibody drugs for treating Covid-19. Federal officials are disappointed the drugs they've distributed across the country aren't being used. The drugs are to prevent those testing positive from getting worse. Hospitals are saying it’s too cumbersome to use these medicines.Here’s what is increasingly in demand. The vaccine. Americans' willingness to take it is increasingly jumping. A USA TODAY poll showed 46% willing to take it as soon as they can. That's close to double the 26% who said that in late October. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bent, CO. Alfalfa, OK. Guadalupe, NM. Crowley, CO. Lassen, CA. Culberson, TX. Perry, TN. Dawson, MT. Lawrence, IL. And Perry, IL. There are now 7,408,707 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Illinois, Virginia, Texas, Missouri, Georgia, and Colorado.   The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Tennessee, Rhode Island, California, Alabama, and Arizona.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Oklahoma, Maine, New Hampshire, West Virginia, and California. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Alaska, New Jersey, Washington, North Dakota, and Wyoming.There’ve been a total 322,585 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 365. Pennsylvania 227. Texas 214. Michigan 189. Missouri 174. New York 154. Arizona 153. Illinois 144. Indiana 143. And Tennessee 133. Globally, there are 21,514,917 active cases.There were 552,680 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 199,080. Brazil 55,799. The U.K. 36,804. Russia 28,776. And India 23,886. There have now been 1,715,815 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 3% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 22nd, 2020. Trucks trying to get into France from Britain backed up for miles and people were stranded at airports as more than 40 countries enacted travel restrictions on the U.K. The rail operator Eurotunnel has also suspended service. This because of a new and seemingly more contagious strain of the coronavirus.The European Union gave the go-ahead to the Pfizer vaccine, so shots should begin across the 27-nation bloc just after Christmas. The approval came just hours after the EU's drug regulatory agency said the vaccine meets safety and quality standards. The Vatican says that it is "morally acceptable" to get a Covid-19 vaccination even if its research or production involved using cell lines from aborted fetuses. It said this is okay given the "grave danger" of the pandemic. Pope Francis approved the text Thursday.Police in New York City raided a club filled with more than 160 patrons, none of whom were wearing masks, in violation of the state's COVID-19 restrictions. This happened around 2:45am Sunday in Queens. Plus, the building is not set up to be a club so they were also violating fire safety codes and did not have a liquor license.If you think people are partying now, wait until after the pandemic. Yale’s Dr Nicholas Christakis says based on history, that period will see people doing the opposite of what the pandemic demanded. Extensive social interaction and partying, licentious sex, big spending, and a reverse of religiosity. He compares it to the roaring 20’s. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Alfalfa, OK. Guadalupe, NM. Bent, CO. Crowley, CO. Lassen, CA. Culberson, TX. Atascosa, TX. Perry, TN. Warren, TN. And Perry, IL. There are now 7,344,448 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Illinois, Virginia, Texas, Missouri, Georgia, and Colorado.   The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Tennessee, Rhode Island, California, Alabama, and Arizona.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, Oklahoma, California, West Virginia, and Mississippi. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Washington, Alaska, North Dakota, Wyoming, and New Jersey.There’ve been a total 319,354 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.8%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 245. New York 179. Texas 142. Illinois 120. Florida 110. Kansas 107. Connecticut 95. Michigan 79. Ohio 67. And Tennessee and Louisiana 65. Globally, there are 21,415,363 active cases.There were 536,082 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 200,109. The U.K. 33,364. Russia 29,350. Brazil 25,621. And Germany 19,333. There have now been 1,701,656 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 5% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 21st, 2020. As a new mutation of the virus reported to spread 70% faster than the original sweeps across England, train stations were packed as thousands ignoring travel bans tried to get out of the area for the holiday. France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Ireland, Bulgaria, and Canada have all announced restrictions on U.K. travel. Scientists believe the vaccine will still work on this mutation but aren’t 100% sure.Initial shipments of the second authorized vaccine left a Memphis distribution center yesterday. Shots of this Moderna vaccine are expected to start today with the first going to health care workers and residents in long-term care homes. And a third vaccine, this one from Johnson & Johnson, could get U.S. approval as early as next month.California hospitals are now talking about rationing care as ICUs fill up and cases soar. As of Friday, almost 17,400 people are hospitalized there. Guidelines are being prepared to shift to trying to save those likely to survive, while others with less likely positive outcomes would get different care than they would in a non-crisis situation.The worse the virus gets the less people seem willing to listen. More than 2 million people have passed through security checkpoints at U.S. airports over the last two days. Official guidance is to stay home for the holidays, but travel is much higher than statistics from when the pandemic began.Researchers from Tel Aviv University published results of their study into whether or not irradiation with ultraviolet LED lights would inactivate human coronaviruses. They found certain wavelengths worked very well on the coronavirus tested, inactivating 99.9% of it in under 30 seconds. But, they weren’t testing the virus that causes Covid so that’s what they want to do next. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bent, CO. Alfalfa, OK. Guadalupe, NM. Crowley, CO. Lassen, CA. Montour, PA. Hudspeth, TX. Culberson, TX. Atascosa, TX. And Perry, TN. There are now 7,320,628 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, New York, Arizona, Illinois, Texas, Virginia, Missouri, Georgia, and Colorado.  The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Tennessee, Rhode Island, California, Arizona, and Indiana.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, Oklahoma, California, Texas, and Mississippi. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Washington, North Dakota, Montana, Alaska, and Michigan. There’ve been a total 317,667 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.81%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 109. New York 95. Pennsylvania 92. Florida 90. California 84. Illinois 81. Minnesota 70. Indiana 66. Massachusetts 60. And Iowa 56. Globally, there are now over 21 million active cases at 21,381,348.There were 615,962 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 183,223. The U.K. 35,928. Russia 28,948. Brazil 25,445. And India 24,589. There have now been 1,692,578 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 5% over 14 days. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 18th, 2020. French President Emmanuel Macron tested positive for COVID-19 after a week in which he met with numerous European leaders. The 42-year-old is experiencing symptoms and will self-isolate for seven days.A second vaccine moved closer to distribution, winning the unanimous endorsement of a panel of experts. Now the Moderna vaccine goes for a final decision by the FDA on emergency use. The shot claims to provide 94% protection.California hospitals are struggling. In fact there’s 0% availability of ICU beds in Southern California. Hospitalizations have broken records for 18 consecutive days. The state has activated its "mass fatality" program, which means refrigerated mobile morgues and the distribution of 5,000 body bags to hard hit counties like Los Angeles and San Diego.However, a judge in California cleared the way yesterday for all restaurants in San Diego County to resume on-site dining. That’s a setback to the governor’s stay-at-home order and he has appealed the decision. It’s advised the following at least observe caution in getting the vaccine. People who have an autoimmune disorder like lupus, people with a history of severe allergic reactions to other vaccines or injections, people with weakened immune systems like those with cancer or HIV, and pregnant and breastfeeding women. That’s not to say these folks can’t be immunized, but additional caution is warranted. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bent, CO. Alfalfa, OK. Guadalupe, NM. Pershing, NV. Montour, PA. Atascosa, TX. Lassen, CA. Lincoln, CO. Kimball, NE. And Johnson, NE. There are now more than 7 million active cases in the United States, at 7,017,785. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, New York, Illinois, Texas, Virginia overtakes Missouri, then Michigan, and Colorado.   The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Tennessee, Rhode Island, Arizona, Indiana, and New Mexico.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, California, Arizona, New Hampshire, and West Virginia. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Wyoming, North Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.  There’ve been a total 310,434 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.83%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 263. Texas 255. Pennsylvania 246. Michigan 213. Illinois 208. Tennessee 177. New York 156. Arizona 147. Ohio 117. And Florida 102. Globally, there are 20,758,423 active cases.There were 726,265 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 230,982. Brazil 68,832. The U.K. 35,383. Germany 30,951. And Russia 28,214. There have now been 1,660,281 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 10% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 17th, 2020. A Juneau, Alaska healthcare worker had an anaphylactic reaction Tuesday and was hospitalized in ICU after being injected with the Pfizer vaccine. She did not have a history of allergies. Two healthcare workers in Britain had a similar reaction last week. But vaccinations are underway in Britain. In fact almost 138,000 people across the U.K. have already been vaccinated since the rollout began last week. The government’s ordered 40 million doses, 5 million of which are due before the end of the month. A study out of the University of Massachusetts Lowell and California Baptist University says wearing a mask is good, but wearing a used mask, not so good. The study claims a new three-layer surgical mask is 65% efficient in filtering particles in the air, but when used, that number drops to 25%.A survey by Britain’s Royal Society for Public Health found that people from ethnic minority backgrounds or with lower incomes are less likely to take the vaccine. That’s not uncommon, it’s true of other vaccines, like measles and flu. But it is concerning as these are vulnerable populations for coronavirus. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell wants fans in the stands at the Super Bowl. Fans who’ve been vaccinated. And who’ll be vaccinated by January? Healthcare workers. Nothing definite yet, but the league is planning to exclusively reward front line workers with the available seats at the big game. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bent, CO. Alfalfa, OK. Pershing, NV. Bowman, ND. Montour, PA. Collingsworth, TX. Guadalupe, NM. Lassen, CA. Atascosa, TX. And Lincoln, CO. There are now 6,907,306 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, New York, Illinois, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Michigan, and Colorado.   The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Tennessee, Ohio, Indiana, and Idaho.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Arizona, Maine, California, West Virginia, and Hawaii. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Wyoming, Montana, North Dakota, Iowa, and New Mexico.  There’ve been a total 307,339 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.84%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 407. Pennsylvania 262. Texas 256. Illinois 190. Kansas 144. Indiana 133. New Jersey 125. Ohio 124. And Florida and New York 112. Globally, there are 20,506,395 active cases.There were 611,749 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 246,996. Brazil 68,437. Turkey 29,718. Germany 28,969. And Russia 26,509. There have now been 1,648,091 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 7% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 16th, 2020. The FDA authorized the rapid coronavirus test, which does not require a prescription and can be done entirely at home. You’ll be able to buy it, swab your nose, run the test, and get results in as little as 20 minutes.The FDA also released an analysis of the vaccine from Moderna that supports authorization for emergency use. The agency said it has a "favorable safety profile" and there are "no specific safety concerns." But side effects like fatigue and headaches are common.The EU is speeding things up, under pressure from its member nations. A meeting to assess the Pfizer vaccine has been moved up to December 21 from December 29. The fact it’s already being given daily to thousands of people in Britain, which left the EU, is galling countries like Germany, where the vaccine’s co-maker is actually based.Americans are changing their tune about taking the vaccine. A Kaiser Family Foundation poll now finds 71% of respondents saying they’d take it, which is dramatically up from the 63% who said so in August. If you want a Covid cop, call Tom Cruise. On the set of his new Mission Impossible movie in the U.K., he spotted two crew members standing within 6 feet of each other. He flew into a lengthy expletive-filled rage which was, of course, recorded. It’s said Cruise personally does safety inspections on the set.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bent, CO. Collingsworth, TX. Pershing, NV. Bowman, ND. Alfalfa, OK. Montour, PA. Childress, TX. Guadalupe, NM. Lincoln, CO. And Kimball, NE. There are now 6,824,858 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, New York overtakes Illinois, Missouri surpasses Texas, then Virginia, Michigan, and Colorado.   The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Tennessee, Ohio, Indiana, and Idaho.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Arizona, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Hawaii, and California. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Wyoming, North Dakota, Iowa, Illinois, and Minnesota.  There’ve been a total 303,453 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.84%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 290. Pennsylvania 261. Texas 220. Michigan 206. Missouri 162. Illinois 132. Indiana 128. New York 126. Colorado 116. And Ohio 96. Globally, there are 20,347,923 active cases.There were 536,131 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported on December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 199,875. Brazil 44,849. Turkey 32,102. Russia 26,689. And India 26,401.There have now been 1,633,180 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 3% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 15th, 2020. The European version of the CDC put out a list of the top 10 countries for Covid deaths per million people. They are Belgium, Peru, Italy, Spain, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzigovena, Slovenia, the U.K., the United States, and Argentina. Americans have died at 2.5x the rate of Canadians and 46x the rate in Japan. The last words anyone wants to hear: new strain of Covid-19. But it’s been identified in the U.K. and it’s thought this variant could be linked to the recent rapid spread. Millions more people in London are being moved into the toughest restrictions.A new AP poll oddly finds Covid deaths are obviously increasing but there’s not much increase in alarm. 40% say they are extremely or very worried about themselves or a family member, and that’s lower than surveys in March and July. You know who hasn’t taken the Pfizer vaccine yet? The CEO of Pfizer. But Albert Bourla offered up an explanation yesterday. He doesn’t want to be seen as jumping the line. He says, “We’re having an ethical committee dealing with the question of who’s getting it.”50 children were possibly exposed to the coronavirus at a Christmas parade in Ludowici, Georgia after Santa and Mrs. Claus (maybe not the real ones – it could be their helpers), tested positive. The parade was followed by a chance for kids to get a picture taken with Santa. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bent, CO. Alfalfa, OK. Collingsworth, TX. Pershing NV. Bowman, ND. Lincoln, CO. Montour, PA. Lassen, CA. Ellsworth, KS. And Childress, TX. There are now 6,763,070 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona overtakes Illinois, New York, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Colorado, and Michigan.   The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Rhode Island, Ohio, North Dakota, Tennessee, and Indiana.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Tennessee, California, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Kentucky. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Wyoming, North Dakota, New Mexico, Montana, and Iowa.  There’ve been a total 300,474 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.85%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 140. Florida 137. New York 120. Illinois 116. Michigan 91. Connecticut 81. Tennessee 79. Texas 70. Pennsylvania 69. And Iowa 60. Globally, there are 20,238,837 active cases.There were 530,637 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 748,974 reported December 11. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 198,647. Turkey 29,617. Brazil 27,419. Russia 27,328. And India 21,791. There have now been 1,620,294 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 7% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 14th, 2020. The first freezer-packed Pfizer vaccine vials went out to distribution sites across the United States yesterday, just as the number of deaths prepares to cross the 300,000 milestone. This will be the biggest vaccination effort in U.S. history. Healthcare workers and nursing home residents should start getting shots today. In terms of expectations, the United States expects to have immunized 100 million people by the end of March. That according to the chief adviser for the vaccine program. He said the United States hopes to have about 40 million doses distributed by the end of December. US Covid-19 hospitalizations hit a record high for the seventh day in a row Saturday at 108,487. There have been more than 100,000 patients in hospitals every day since December 2. Around the world, lockdown measures are increasing. In Germany, most stores closed, tight limits on social contacts, no singing in church, no fireworks sales, and schools are closing or switching to home school Wednesday. The President of South Korea warned the toughest restrictions are coming. And the Dutch government is set to decide on stricter measures today. The death of country music legend Charley Pride from Covid has other country stars wondering…did his presence at the Country Music Association’s indoor awards show have anything to do with it? The show however was a month before Pride got the virus and became his last public performance. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bent, CO. Alfalfa, OK. Collingsworth, TX. Pershing NV. Bowman, ND. Jackson, AR. Lassen, CA. Ellsworth, KS. Lincoln, CO. And Childress, TX. There are now 6,706,369 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Illinois, Arizona, New York, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Colorado, and Maryland.   The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Alaska, Rhode Island, Ohio, North Dakota, and Indiana.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, Kentucky, Georgia, South Carolina, and Delaware. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Wyoming, North Dakota, New Mexico, Illinois, and Montana.  There’ve been a total 299,163 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.86%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Pennsylvania 120. Illinois 107. Texas 101. New York and Colorado 87. Minnesota 85. Florida 81. California 73. Tennessee 62. And South Carolina 54. Globally, there are now over 20 million active cases, at 20,162,922.There were 748,974 new cases around the world reported on Dec 11. The New York Times reported a data anomaly prevented newer numbers than that. Still, the December 11 number sets a new record high by a wide margin. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 187,901. Russia 28,080. India 27,366. Turkey 26,919. And Brazil 21,395. There have now been 1,612,014 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 5% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 11th, 2020. There have been 3,124 American deaths in one day, the highest single day total yet. That’s more than D-Day or 9/11. One million new cases in five days. More than 106,000 hospitalized and the number of people in the hospital with Covid is setting records almost daily. The next step is done. A panel of outside experts yesterday recommended the FDA grant emergency use authorization to Pfizer’s Covid-19 vaccine. The vote was 17 to 4. The FDA does not have to follow the panel’s recommendation but is widely expected to do so. The rollout in the U.S. could begin in a matter of days. If you were going to give an award out to the states that handled the pandemic best as of now, which states would get it? Dr. Anthony Fauci has an opinion on that and he’s singled out Vermont and New York. He said back in September Vermont should serve as a model. New York is more of a surprise since it was for a time the epicenter. But Fauci says the state is doing all the right things. A couple more celebrities have tested positive. Ellen DeGeneres said she has the virus but is feeling fine, though production on her show has stopped. And Dancing with the Stars judge Carrie Ann Inaba tested positive and is showing symptoms, but is not hospitalized. More seriously, New Hampshire’s Speaker of the House, Dick Hinch, died of Covid Wednesday. He was elected Speaker just one week ago.   A proof of concept study has backed up the belief dogs can be trained to detect Covid-19 by sniffing human sweat. Many countries are thinking about using them as a rapid, reliable, and inexpensive way to prescreen people in various circumstances. They can apparently detect it with no symptoms present. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Dewey, SD. Bent, CO. Lincoln, CO. Montour, PA. Ellsworth, KS. Collingsworth, TX. Alfalfa, OK. Bowman, ND. Childress, TX. And Lassen, CA. There are now 6,408,836 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Illinois, Arizona, New York, Texas, Missouri, Michigan, Virginia, and Colorado. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Alaska, South Dakota, Nebraska, Indiana, and Utah.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Arizona, Massachusetts, California, Georgia, and New York. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Wyoming, New Mexico, Illinois, Iowa, and Montana.  There’ve been a total 292,001 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.9%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 245. Illinois 232. Pennsylvania 226. Michigan 194. California 164. Florida 126. Colorado 120. Ohio 111. Iowa 99. And Indiana 97. Globally, there are now 19,981,129 active cases.There are 664,648 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 706,016 on December 3. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 217,779. Brazil 53,425. India 34,666. Turkey 30,424. And Germany 28,179. There have now been 1,580,867 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 5% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 10th, 2020. Yesterday, the U.S. hit the highest daily death toll thus far. 3,054, which beat the May 7th record of 2,769. And there’s a record breaking 106,688 hospitalizations. The good news, as regular listeners of Coronavirus 411 will know, is that despite this, the fatality rate continues to decline. U.K. regulators say people with a “significant history” of allergic reactions should not get the Pfizer vaccine. They’re investigating two adverse reactions that occurred on the first day of their mass vaccination program. Both recipients are recovering well. Canada became the third after the U.K. and Bahrain to approve Pfizer’s vaccine and hopes to start shots next week. The Chief Medical Adviser at Health Canada said, “This a momentous occasion. The geek in me is amazed.” A new AP poll finds only about half of Americans are ready to take a vaccine. About a fourth aren’t sure and another fourth say they won’t do it. So that’s no change in willingness since a poll taken in May. Of those who won’t get it, 70% are concerned about side effects. 43% worry the vaccine will infect them, which is scientifically impossible since the shots contain no virus. Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine is administered in two phases 21 days apart. And the country’s leaders are saying recipients can’t drink for those 42 days because booze is an immunosuppressant. Wait, it gets worse. They also have to stop drinking two weeks before their first injection. That’s two months of sobriety in one of the world's leading alcohol consuming nations. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lincoln, CO. Bent, CO. Dewey, SD. Montour, PA. Alfalfa, OK. Deaf Smith, TX. Lassen, CA. Childress, TX. Jackson, AR. And Schuyler, IL. There are now 6,296,933 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Illinois, Arizona, New York, Texas, Missouri, Michigan, Virginia, and Colorado.   The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Alaska, Indiana, Utah, New Mexico, and South Dakota. The reproduction rate is currently highest in California, Georgia, New York, New Hampshire, and Delaware. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Wyoming, Montana, Iowa, North Dakota, and New Mexico.   There’ve been a total 289,298 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.9%. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 287. Colorado 267. Pennsylvania 256. Illinois 229. California 201. New Jersey 111. Arizona 108. Iowa 102. Indiana 96. And Massachusetts 90. Globally, there are now 19,669,286 active cases. There are 534,844 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 225,441. Brazil 54,203. Turkey 31,712. India 26,351. And Russia 26,190. There have now been 1,568,512 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 7% over 14 days.   For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 9th, 2020. The U.K. has started vaccinating. The first was given yesterday morning before dawn at a hospital in the English city of Coventry to 90-year-old Margaret Keenan. The second went to a man named William Shakespeare, so British social media are calling it the taming of the flu.When will Covid-19 peak in the U.S.? Well the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation has hazarded a guess. January 20. They say that’s a worst-case scenario and assuming a 90-day vaccine rollout with 3 million doses delivered a day. But first, the vaccines have to get approved by the FDA. An analysis released yesterday shows Pfizer’s vaccine showed no specific safety concerns. Next, a group of independent experts will meet and advise the FDA on whether or not it should get emergency use authorization.In Canada, possible punishment if you don’t get an injection. Ontario’s health minister said those who refuse to take it could have restrictions put on them. These would make it hard to do things like travel and go to activities in communal spaces like movie theatres. Ontario will issue government papers people can show to prove they’re in compliance. It’s not just us. Four lions at Barcelona Zoo in Spain tested positive. It’s the second known case of large felines getting it. They were tested after they started exhibiting symptoms. Two staff also tested positive after an outbreak was detected last month.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lincoln, CO. Bent, CO. Dewey, SD. Montour, PA. Alfalfa, OK. Deaf Smith, TX. Lassen, CA. Prairie, MT. Jackson, AR. And Pawnee, KS. There are now 6,211,242 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Texas leaps to #2, then Florida, Illinois, New York, Georgia goes back on the list, as does Ohio. Then Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.  The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Alaska, Indiana, Utah, South Dakota, and New Mexico.The reproduction rate is currently highest in California, Georgia, New York, New Hampshire, and Delaware. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Wyoming, Montana, North Dakota, and New Mexico.  There’ve been a total 286,189 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.91%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 212. Michigan 203. Texas 199. Iowa 196. Pennsylvania 174. Illinois 168. Missouri 132. Indiana 126. Florida 120. And Tennessee 100. Globally, there are now 19,540,692 active cases.There are 632,708 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 208,121. Brazil 47,850. Turkey 33,198. India 32,067. And Russia 26,097. There have now been 1,555,898 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 14% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 8th, 2020. Britain begins its vaccine program this week and now the job is reassuring people it’s safe and effective. Not easy, because a sizable minority don’t believe it is. And the World Health Organization estimates it’ll take 65-70% vaccine coverage to reach population immunity.South Korea’s health minister is using the harshest wording he can think of to communicate the gravity of the situation there. He said the Seoul metropolitan area is now a “COVID-19 war zone.” They’ve recorded more than 5,300 new infections in 10 days and most of that has come from Seoul. New data released by Health and Human Services gives a detailed picture of how individual hospitals in the United States are holding up. In 126 counties, the average hospital is at least 90% occupied. The states with the most counties above this threshold are Kentucky, Georgia, Minnesota, Oklahoma, and Texas.The vaccine is already creating jobs. If you need one, CVS Health is looking for thousands of pharmacists, nurses, pharmacy technicians and more. The problem for CVS is…so is everybody else. The Department of Defense said CVS and Walgreens will be the ones to give vaccines to people in long-term care facilities nationwide.Pathetic but very 2020 advice for Americans this holiday season from the World Health Organization. Don't hug. Dr. Michael Ryan said, “It’s a horrible thing to think we’d be here as the World Health Organization saying to people, ‘Don’t hug each other.’ It’s terrible. But that’s the brutal reality.” At the moment, the U.S. accounts for a third of all cases in the world.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lincoln, CO. Dewey, SD. Bent, CO. Montour, PA. Ziebach, SD. Lassen, CA. Jackson, AR. Prairie, MT. Deaf Smith, TX. And Hall, TX. There are now 6,096,357 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Illinois, Arizona, New York, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Michigan, and Maryland.  The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Alaska, Minnesota, South Dakota, New Mexico, and Indiana.The reproduction rate is currently highest in California, Georgia, Delaware, New York, and Massachusetts. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Iowa, New Mexico, Montana, North Dakota, and Wyoming. There’ve been a total 283,650 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.93%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 115. New York 112. Florida 105. Michigan 101. Illinois 100. Texas 83. Connecticut 78. Kansas 70. Tennessee 66. And Ohio 61. Globally, there are now 19,377,609 active cases.There are 534,049 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 198,792. Turkey 32,137. Russia 28,412. India 27,107. And Brazil 24,525.There have now been 1,543,280 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 12% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 7th, 2020. More than one million new cases have been logged in US in the first five days of December, according to Johns Hopkins University. And the total number of US cases has now reached more than 14.5 million, with 281,199 deaths as of Saturday.Southern California and San Joaquin Valley residents went under a stay-at-home order last night. The mandate was triggered when ICU capacity in those areas fell below 15%. The order affects some 27 million people, including Los Angeles and San Diego.Residents in the U.K. could start getting their first shots as early as this week. Doses are scheduled to be delivered to hospitals starting today. Nursing home residents, health care workers and those 80 and over will be first in line for the vaccine.But in the U.S. nearly 55% of New York City firefighters responded “no” when asked by one of their unions if they would take the vaccine from Pfizer when it’s made available. The New York City Fire Department will not be making the vaccine mandatory for its members.As employers try to figure out how to reopen their offices—a great many of their workers are saying, don’t bother. 27% surveyed say they'd never or rarely work from their employer's office in an ideal world. 48% expect their employer to expand remote working options post-pandemic.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lincoln, CO. Dewey, SD. Bent, CO. Prairie, MT. Montour, PA. Ziebach, SD. Lassen, CA. Deaf Smith, TX. Childress, TX. And Richland, MT. There are now over 6 million active cases in the United States at 6,015,130. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida overtakes Illinois, Arizona, New York surpasses Texas, then Missouri, Virginia, Michigan, and Maryland.  The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are New Mexico, South Dakota, Wyoming, Indiana, and Ohio.The reproduction rate is currently highest in California, New York, Virginia, Massachusetts, and Arizona. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Iowa, North Dakota, Wyoming, Illinois, and Montana. There’ve been a total 282,236 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.95%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Illinois 99. Florida 93. Texas 70. Minnesota 64. California and Pennsylvania 55. Massachusetts 51. New York 45. South Carolina 43. And Arkansas 40. Globally, there are now over 19 million active cases at 19,266,794.There are 624,070 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 173,861. India 32,272. Turkey 30,402. Russia 29,039. And Brazil 26,363. There have now been 1,535,107 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 14% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 4th, 2020. The U.S. recorded over 3,100 COVID-19 deaths in one day, obliterating the record set last spring. The CDC’s Dr. Robert Redfield said, “The reality is December and January and February are going to be rough times. I actually believe they’re going to be the most difficult time in the public health history of this nation.”Pfizer has cut in half their original estimates for how many vaccines would be shipped globally by the end of this year. The Wall Street Journal reports there are supply-chain issues. Which may be frustrating, but to keep things in perspective, this vaccine development has been one of the fastest in history. It typically takes 10 years for a vaccine to get regulatory approval.IBM security researchers detected a cyberespionage effort against the World Health Organization. It used targeted phishing emails to try to get information on their initiative for vaccine distribution to developing countries. The researchers said they couldn’t be sure who was behind it or how successful it was.Sweden appears to be changing its mind about lockdowns. Public confidence in authorities’ ability to handle the crisis are sliding. Sweden’s anti-lockdown approach is being challenged by mounting numbers of deaths and new cases. High schools there are switching to distance learning December 7.How do you encourage people to take the vaccine? The CDC thinks giving people who do a nice shiny button might do the trick. They’re planning to offer health care providers a template they can use to print buttons or stickers that’d display a person's vaccination status. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Lincoln, CO. Crowley, CO. Crockett, TX. Brewster, TX. Prairie, MT. Bent, CO. Republic, KS. Richland, MT. Renville, ND. And Crane, TX. There are now 5,690,940 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Michigan and New York overtake Missouri, then Virginia, and Maryland.  The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Montana, Minnesota, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Nebraska.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Oregon, Washington, New Hampshire, Virginia, and California. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Oklahoma, and Illinois.There’ve been a total 276,148 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.98%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Illinois 228. Texas 224. Pennsylvania 206. Michigan 193. California 145. Colorado 127. Florida 103. New York 101. Tennessee 93. And Minnesota 92. Globally, there are now 18,645,430 active cases.There are 600,856 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 218,576. Brazil 50,866. India 38,309. Turkey 32,381. And Russia 28,145. There have now been 1,504,443 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 9% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 3rd, 2020. They’re first. British officials authorized a vaccine for emergency use yesterday. The vaccine is from Pfizer and the U.K. regulatory agency seems to agree it’s proven in testing to be 95% effective overall and offers significant protection for older people. Britain expects to start getting the first shipment of 800,000 doses “within days.”The number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients nationwide stood on the brink of 100,000 as of yesterday. Some experts said the total, compiled by the COVID Tracking Project, could soon double. For instance, California’s Governor said ICU beds there could be full by mid-December.A study out of Harvard, Rutgers, and Northwestern shows social distancing and other efforts to try to prevent the virus from spreading "decreased dramatically" in the U.S. over the summer and into the fall. And while about 77% said they were good about wearing masks in November, adherence to social distancing, avoiding public places, frequent hand washing, and disinfecting surfaces all reached all-time lows in October.In Pasadena, California, health authorities have taken a stand against Los Angeles County’s ban on outdoor dining. Meanwhile in New York City, a bar owner defying the ban there on indoor service was arrested. It was a sting operation involving plainclothes officers.  With a vaccine right around the corner, many of you might be asking, should I get it if I already survived Covid? The answer is…still…we don’t know. But the director of the infectious diseases division at Johns Hopkins says there’s likely little risk in getting the shot, so that’s the recommendation.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Crowley, CO. Crawford, WI. Dewey, SD. Presidio, TX. Prairie, MT. Brewster, TX. Crockett, TX. Ellis, OK. Powell, MT. and Bent, CO. There are now 5,571,729 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Michigan, New York, Virginia, and Maryland.  The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Montana, Minnesota, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Nebraska.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Oregon, New Hampshire, Washington, New York, and Mississippi. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are North Dakota, Illinois, Iowa, Montana, and South Dakota.There’ve been a total 273,316 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 1.99%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Illinois 266. Texas 212. Pennsylvania 187. Ohio 123. California 120. Kansas 119. Indiana 109. Florida 95. Colorado 84. And Michigan 83.Globally, there are now 18,402,773 active cases.There are 599,017 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States crosses the 200,000 mark at 203,427. Brazil 48,124. India 33,761. Turkey 31,923. And Russia 25,345. There have now been 1,492,029 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 14% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 2nd, 2020. The European Union drug agency said it may need four more weeks to approve its first vaccine, the one from Pfizer, but could do so by Dec. 29. And fast as that is, it’s not as fast as hoped. Germany was preparing to start immunizing starting in mid-December.Nearly 37,000 Americans died of COVID-19 just in November, straining hospitals, morgues, and funeral homes. November's toll was much lower than the 60,699 in April but very close to the next-highest total in May. A study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases, based on blood donations, says the virus was here in the U.S. weeks earlier than scientists thought, and before cases in China were publicized. The first U.S. case was confirmed January 20, but infections may have been present in December 2019. That adds to evidence the virus was well underway around the world before anybody was aware. There’s at least one person that sure hopes China’s experimental vaccine really works. Japanese intelligence says it was given to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and his family. But experts on North Korea, including defectors, say there’s no way that happened. A) Kim would never risk it, B) he has plenty of places to safely isolate, and C) he would prefer a proven European vaccine. In the “what are people thinking” department, at least 41 out of 300 swingers were infected after couples passed around the virus at a New Orleans convention. The organizer of the 5-day Naughty in N'awlins event said they did everything they could to stay safe but in hindsight, maybe they shouldn’t have had it.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Powell, MT. Crowley, CO. Dewey, SD. Brewster, TX. Presidio, TX. Crockett, TX. Crawford, WI. Ellis, OK. Hudspeth, TX. And Comanche, KS. There are now 5,498,496 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Michigan, New York surpasses Virginia, then Maryland.  The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Montana, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, and North Dakota.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Oregon, New Hampshire, Washington, New York, and Mississippi. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are North Dakota, Illinois, Iowa, Montana, and South Dakota.There’ve been a total 270,509 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 237. Michigan 195. Pennsylvania 170. Illinois 146. Indiana 141. Missouri 134. Ohio 119. California 113. Wisconsin 107. And Florida and New Jersey 84. Globally, there are now 18,264,375 active cases.There are 519,657 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 182,172. Brazil 52,248. India 36,456. Turkey 30,110. And Russia 26,402. There have now been 1,478,923 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 14% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for December 1st, 2020. Health officials across America are assuming a disastrous surge from Thanksgiving gatherings. Los Angeles County imposed a stay-at-home order. Silicon Valley banned all sports and required quarantine of those who went anywhere over 150 miles outside the county. New Jersey is suspending all youth sports. In Hawaii, even travelers who’ve tested negative may be randomly selected for more testing on arrival. The FDA said Moderna submitted its vaccine for emergency use authorization yesterday after completing its Phase 3 trial and finding the vaccine was 94.1% effective. In fact Moderna claims it was 100% effective at preventing severe cases.Canada’s government has extended its restrictions on non-essential travel until early 2021. Visitors who aren’t Canadian citizens or permanent residents cannot enter the country if their reason for coming is deemed non-essential. The Canada-U.S. border will also remain closed to discretionary travel until at least December 21.The pandemic takes its toll in many ways. In Japan, suicide claimed more lives just in October than Covid-19 has over the entire year to date. 2,153. This even though Japan never had a lockdown, and the impact was minimal compared to other countries. Which suggests other countries might see an even larger increase once suicides are reported, which Japan does in near real time.It appears Covid-19 is what took the life of one of the most iconic villains of all time. The daughter of 85-year-old David Prowse, who played Darth Vader in the first Star Wars trilogy, said his death was from complications of Covid-19. She said, “It’s horrible Covid restrictions meant we didn’t get to see him and say goodbye.” The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Powell, MT. Crowley, CO. Presidio, TX. Brewster, TX. Ellis, OK. Ellsworth, KS. Crockett, TX. Crawford, WI. Hudspeth, TX. And Rush, KS. There are now 5,422,659 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Michigan surpasses Virginia, then New York, and Maryland.  The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Oregon, New Hampshire, Washington, Maine, and Kentucky. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are South Dakota, Iowa, North Dakota, Illinois, and Minnesota.There’ve been a total 267,987 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.01%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Illinois 103. Florida 99. Michigan 97. Texas 85. Washington 69. New York 65. Connecticut 59. California 58. Tennessee 48. And Pennsylvania 45. Globally, there are now 18,130,797 active cases.There are 490,233 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 161,568. Turkey 31,219. India 31,179. Russia 26,338. And Brazil 21,538. There have now been 1,466,762 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 15% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 30th, 2020. Dr. Deborah Birx of the White House Coronavirus Task Force says if you traveled over Thanksgiving and attended a large gathering, just go ahead and assume you’ve been infected and get tested. You should also stay away from senior citizens and people with comorbidities.The FAA confirmed the first mass air shipment of vaccine, charter flights bringing Pfizer's vaccine to the U.S. from Belgium, started Friday. But while preparations are ramping up, shipment to actual administration sites is not allowed until the FDA authorizes the vaccine. California reported a record number of hospitalizations. 7,415 reported on Saturday, a big jump from Friday’s figure of 6,972. Hospitalizations in that state have more than doubled in two weeks and the number of people in ICU with the virus is also near a record. Nationwide, hospitalizations reached another record — 91,635 on Saturday.How a country reports its Covid numbers matters. Turkey recently changed how it reports daily infections, from just those being treated for symptoms to everyone who tests positive. The result? The realization there’s an alarming surge of cases exhausting the Turkish health system. With the new data, the country jumped from being one of the least-affected countries in Europe to one of the worst.New York City’s Mayor says they’ll reopen schools to in-person learning and raise the number of days a week many children attend class. The reversal comes less than two weeks after the Mayor said schools were closing because of a rising number of cases in the city.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Powell, MT. Crowley, CO. Presidio, TX. Ellis, OK. Ellsworth, KS. Crockett, TX. Crawford, WI. Rush, KS. Foster, ND. And Dewey, SD. There are now 5,370,129 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Michigan, New York, and Maryland. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Montana, Minnesota, Wyoming, South Dakota, and North Dakota.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Oregon with a particularly high 1.63 average, then New Hampshire, Washington, Arizona, and Maine. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Illinois, South Dakota, Iowa, North Dakota, and Mississippi.There’ve been a total 266,838 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.03%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Pennsylvania 65. Florida 59. Minnesota 57. Texas 54. Massachusetts 46. Illinois 44. New York 42. Mississippi 27. Maryland 23. And Wisconsin and Indiana 22. Globally, there are now over 18 million active cases, at 18,058,739.There are 580,351 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 138,188. India 39,036. Turkey 29,281. Russia 26,683. And Brazil 24,468. There have now been 1,458,260 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 17% over 14 days. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 27th, 2020. AstraZeneca and Oxford University acknowledged a manufacturing error that throws uncertainty on their claim their vaccine was 90% effective. Oxford said some of the vials used in the trial actually didn’t have the right concentration of vaccine. The manufacturing error is said to have been corrected. Greece's government announced a weeklong extension to their current lockdown. The virus continues to spread especially in the north of the country. The lockdown will now go to December 7. And Germany has extended restrictions through at least December 20.California reported a record number of cases as LA restaurants prepared to close for three weeks and firefighters in Silicon Valley were enlisted as public health rule enforcers. Almost the whole state is under a 10pm to 5am curfew with bans on indoor dining and store capacity. LA has stopped restaurants from serving at all and is considering a stay-home order.Canadians have been told by their Prime Minister they should expect to get the vaccine after other countries because they can’t make it. Justin Trudeau said, “Canada no longer has domestic production capacity for vaccines.” Plus Health Canada has to approve any vaccine. You might want to take the Covid numbers over the next couple of days with a grain of salt. At least 14 states aren’t updating their data over the holiday. Many county and regional health departments took at least Thursday off. And remember, new cases and deaths are reported on the date they’re announced, not necessarily on the date they happened. A dip this week in numbers might be artificially low, and a spike next week might be artificially high as the numbers play catch up.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Crowley, CO. Lee, KY. Powell, MT. Union, NM. Foster, ND. Crawford, WI. Alpine, CA. Clearwater, ID. Ness, KS. Webster, NE. There are now 5,132,249 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Michigan, New York, and Maryland.  The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, Wyoming, Wisconsin, New Mexico, and South Dakota.The reproduction rate is currently highest in New Hampshire, New Mexico, Washington, California, and Oregon. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are South Dakota, Illinois, Iowa, Mississippi, and North Dakota.There’ve been a total 263,417 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.07%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 175. Illinois 156. Pennsylvania 115. Indiana 63. Wisconsin 62. California 54. Tennessee 53. Colorado 51. And New York and Arizona 44. Globally, there are 17,474,922 active cases.There are 632,065 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 108,063. India 43,174. Brazil 37,672. Italy 29,003. And Russia 25,487.There have now been 1,430,822 deaths reported as Covid-related worldwide. Up 24% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 26th, 2020. The pandemic is hitting the old and the young in different ways. The latest surge is fueling a record number of nursing home outbreaks. The virus is spreading quickly inside long-term care facilities in the Midwest and Great Plains and re-emerging in facilities swamped by the first wave. More than 1,300 nursing homes across the U.S. reported having three or more confirmed cases during the first week of November — the highest number ever reported in a single week. For the young, it’s anxiety. A study out of the University of Bristol in England shows the early stages of the pandemic and first lockdown caused the number of young people age 27 to 29 with anxiety to nearly double. And those anxiety levels stayed high even when lockdown restrictions began to ease in June.That anxiety may get put to the test even further. Government scientists in the UK have warned relaxing restrictions over Christmas could lead to yet a third wave and more lockdowns in 2021. At least two advisors say the plan to let up to three family households mix indoors over Christmas threatens to overwhelm the National Health Service. While you’re deciding whether or not to get a vaccine for Covid, your employer may not even give you a choice. Many employers are reportedly weighing whether they should make vaccination mandatory for employment. And yes, that’s legal. Alabama Crimson Tide head football coach Nick Saban has tested positive…again. The first time it was determined the test was likely a false positive, but this time the 68-year-old is showing symptoms. Those symptoms are mild at present so he’s isolating at home. Undefeated Alabama is to play Auburn Saturday.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Crowley, CO. Lee, KY. Union, NM. Powell, MT. Foster, ND. Alpine, CA. Clearwater, ID. Prairie, MT. Fallon, MT. And Guadalupe, NM. There are now 5,064,463 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Michigan, New York, and Maryland.  The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, Wyoming, Wisconsin, New Mexico, and South Dakota.The reproduction rate is currently highest in New Hampshire, New Mexico, Washington, New Jersey, and Arizona. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Iowa, South Dakota, Illinois, Mississippi, and North Dakota.There’ve been a total 262,177 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.08%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 193. Illinois 178. Ohio 156. Pennsylvania 145. California 104. Tennessee 92. Florida 91. Georgia and Michigan 76. And Minnesota 75. Globally, there are 17,262,022 active cases.There are 584,319 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 180,903. Brazil 45,449. India 44,699. Italy 25,853. And Russia 23,675.There have now been 1,420,721 deaths worldwide. Up 20% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 25th, 2020. There are now over 5 million active cases in the United States and over 17 million active cases around the world. More stats in a moment.The CDC is finalizing plans to shorten the recommended length of quarantine for those exposed to Covid-19. The recommendation has been 14 days. It’s how long scientists thought it takes the virus to incubate. But now it’s believed that with testing that can shortened to 7-10 days.In the UK, it’ll be the five days of Christmas. The government said families can gather in three-household groups of any size over Christmas, which are being called “Christmas bubbles.” People can travel freely from December 23 to 27 no matter what local tier of restrictions they live in. Then everything goes back to the way it was December 28.If you live in a populous state, you’re getting the vaccine first. 6.4 million doses have been allocated to states based on total adult population. The CDC wanted it to go to high risk groups like health care workers, nursing home residents and factory workers, but the population approach is viewed as simpler.An interesting problem. Plants that make items to protect against Covid closing because of Covid. Malaysia's Top Glove will close down 28 plants because the health ministry reported a sharp rise in cases in areas where those factories and crowded dorms are located.Another thing we’re learning because of the pandemic, Americans can’t hear as well as they thought. If you have a hard time understanding people who are wearing a mask, it may not be because the mask muffles sound. It could be you relied a lot more on reading lips and faces than you thought. Hearing specialists across the U.S. have seen an uptick in visits.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Crowley, CO. Lee, KY. Union, NM. Foster, ND. Alpine, CA. Clearwater, ID. Fallon, MT. Rooks, KS. Kearny, KS. And Marshall, KS. There are now over 5 million active cases in the United States, at 5,052,032. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Michigan, and New York surpasses Maryland.  The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, Wyoming, Wisconsin, South Dakota, and New Mexico.The reproduction rate is currently highest in New Mexico, New Hampshire, Washington, New Jersey, and Vermont. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are South Dakota, Iowa, Mississippi, Illinois, and North Dakota.There’ve been a total 259,874 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.1%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 195. Michigan 154. Illinois 150. Missouri 138. California 107. Wisconsin 104. Indiana 103. Ohio 98. Pennsylvania 84. And Florida 74. Globally, there are over 17 million active cases, at 17,135,218.There are 528,385 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 175,047. India 44,276. Brazil 33,445. Russia 24,326. And Italy 23,232. There have now been 1,407,542 deaths worldwide. Up 20% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 24th, 2020. Vaccine number three. AstraZeneca said late-stage trials showed its vaccine developed by Oxford University is not only highly effective, but relatively cheap, and easy-to-store. The fact that it doesn’t have to be stored at freezer temperatures makes it a potential vaccine of choice in developing countries.But while the vaccine news sounds good, doctors are telling the CDC everyone needs to be honest about the side effects people may experience after getting their first shot. The danger is that patients won’t come back for the second dose of two-dose vaccines due to side effects like high fever, body aches, bad headaches, daylong exhaustion and other symptoms. Spiking cases in at least one New York City borough forced the re-opening of a field hospital not used since the early days of the pandemic. The temporary facility is at Staten Island University Hospital. It'll be able to hold up to 108 patients and could be expanded to 250 if needed.Close to 700 nursing home workers walked off the job yesterday in Chicago. They won’t return to the 11 facilities unless the owners pay them at least $15/hour and assure them safer working conditions. The owners got $12.7 million in COVID-19 federal funding, but some CNAs say they only get one mask for a day’s work.If you’re more concerned about climate than Covid, good news. EU officials say air quality significantly improved in European metropolitan areas because of lockdowns. For instance, nitrogen dioxide levels are down 59% in Barcelona, 47% in Madrid. 54% in Milan, and 39% in Rome. Western Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands also saw significant drops.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Crowley, CO. Lee, KY. Foster, ND. Union, NM. Alpine, CA. Fallon, MT. Pierce, ND. Stutsman, ND. Kearny, KS. And Marshall, KS. There are now 4,964,547 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Michigan, Maryland, and New York. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Iowa, and Nebraska.The reproduction rate is currently highest in New Mexico, New Hampshire, Washington, Maine, and Vermont. The states with the lowest reproduction rate are Mississippi, South Dakota, North Dakota, Iowa, and Illinois.There’ve been a total 257,651 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.12%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 85. Michigan 65. Illinois 61. Texas 58. Kansas 46. California 45. New York and Connecticut 43. Washington 36. And Tennessee 35. Globally, there are 16,957,420 active cases.There are 527,205 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 172,103. India 37,410. Russia 25,173. Italy 22,930. And Brazil 16,603. There have now been 1,395,519 deaths worldwide. Up 22% over 14 days. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 23rd, 2020. The U.S. has seen more new cases already in November than any other month of the pandemic. More than 3 million new cases between November 1 and 22. At least 83,227 Covid-19 patients were hospitalized Saturday, the 12th straight day the US has broken its record for hospitalizations.How bad is the hospital situation? A hospital in Indiana is so low on help it issued a public plea via Facebook for anyone with medical experience. The Mayo Clinic is bringing back retirees and moving researchers to patient care after 905 employees contracted the virus in the last two weeks. 18% of hospitals in the country reported a critical shortage of medical staff. In five states, more than a third of hospitals report critical staffing shortages.The FDA has approved the antibody Covid treatment Regeneron for emergency use. The treatment combines two antibodies administered by IV. It’s only for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in people 12 years and older who are at high risk of developing more severe symptoms. In California, even outdoor dining at restaurants across Los Angeles County will shut down on Wednesday and stay shut down for at least three weeks. Cases have tripled in the state in just the last month. For all the warnings and bans and lockdowns, Americans appear to be attempting to live life as usual. More than 2 million people were screened at U.S. airports Friday and Saturday. Which means they are traveling for Thanksgiving. The TSA says they’ve actually seen passenger volume go over 900,000 a day frequently since early October.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Crowley, CO. Lee, KY. Union, NM. Foster, ND. Fallon, MT. Kearny, KS. Marshall, KS. Rawlins, KS. Pierce, ND. And Alfalfa, OK. There are now 4,873,425 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Maryland is back over Michigan, then New York.  The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, Wyoming, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa.The reproduction rate is currently highest in New Hampshire, New Mexico, Vermont, Washington, and New Jersey. There are two states with a reproduction rate below 1 and they are Mississippi and, interestingly, South Dakota.There’ve been a total 256,745 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related with a current national fatality rate of 2.14%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Illinois 99. Texas 77. Florida and Indiana 59. Tennessee 55. South Dakota 42. Minnesota 40. Pennsylvania 38. New Mexico 33. And Iowa 32. Globally, there are 16,824,439 active cases.There are 509,621 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 136,627. India 44,404. Italy 28,337. Russia 24,581. And the UK 18,662. There have now been 1,386,465 deaths worldwide. Up 18% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 20th, 2020. The CDC is now pleading with Americans do not travel and do not gather for Thanksgiving with people outside of your household. Not family…household. They are combatting pandemic fatigue; people getting tired of masks and other precautions. The CDC believes around 40% of people who are infected don’t have obvious symptoms but can still spread the virus.California is imposing an overnight curfew for 94% of its residents from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. starting Saturday. However, the virus must know not to hurt anyone in the movie business, because they have been made specially exempt. The state has deemed them essential workers.  Mexico passed the 100,000 mark in COVID-19 deaths yesterday, becoming only the fourth country — behind the United States, Brazil and India — to do so. That comes after Mexico said it topped 1 million cases. Officials actually think that number is much higher due to low levels of testing.The regional head of the World Health Organization said one person is dying from coronavirus every 17 seconds in Europe. ICU’s in France have been at 95%-plus capacity for 10 days and those in Switzerland are at full capacity.The longer the pandemic goes on, the more you think you’ve heard it all. But top officials at a Tyson Foods plant in Waterloo, IA were suspended without pay. The reason? It’s alleged they were betting on how many of their workers would get infected. The answer, by the way, was more than 1,000 of the 2,800 workers, at least six of whom died. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Crowley, CO. Lee, KY. Rawlins, KS. Stutsman, ND. Foster, ND. Johnson, NE. Fallon, MT. Jones, IA. Walsh, ND. And Pierce, ND.There are now 4,568,891 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Michigan overtakes Maryland, then Georgia. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wyoming.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Vermont, Washington, New Hampshire, New York, and Ohio. There is one state with a reproduction rate below 1 and that is Mississippi.There’ve been a total 252,514 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.19%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 226. Illinois 180. Michigan 144. Pennsylvania 104. California 97. Wisconsin 83. Tennessee 80. Florida and Colorado 79. And Minnesota and Alabama 72. Globally, there are now more than 16 million active cases, at 16,145,453There are 598,877 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 192,186. India 46,182. Italy 36,176. Brazil 35,686. And Poland 23,975. There have now been 1,359,120 deaths worldwide. Up 25% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 19th, 2020. The confirmed US death toll from coronavirus tops a quarter of a million and that’s the highest in world. More stats in a moment. The FDA granted emergency authorization to the first at-home, self-testing rapid result kit. The Lucira COVID-19 All-In-One Test Kit is a molecular single-use nasal swab test and requires a prescription. Results come in 30 minutes or less and are shown on the light-up display.Pfizer says new test results show its vaccine is actually 95% effective. They also say it’s safe and protects older people. The company can now seek emergency use of limited shot supplies. The first estimated effectiveness rate was 90%.Weddings continue to be a problem where virus containment is concerned. A recent one in Ohio was attended by 83 people, nearly half of whom tested positive after. The bride, who was among the infected, said, “You're in the moment. You don't think about COVID anymore." And in the hotspot of Washington state, a wedding attended by over 300 people has been linked to nearly 40 cases so far. State restrictions say weddings should be limited to 30 people.It’s an issue. Really. Glasses fogging up when you wear a mask. Popular Science published the top methods for fighting the fog and they include use a mask with an adjustable noseband, wash the lenses with soapy water and let air dry, wear a mask extender that tightens behind your head, use tissues as a buffer between your mask and nose, and their highest rated method - literally surgical tape the mask down on your nose.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Crowley, CO. Jones, TX. Lee, KY. Foster, ND. Rawlins, KS. Stutsman, ND. Gray, TX. Jones, IA. Pierce, ND. And Johnson, NE. There are now 4,450,477 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Maryland, and Michigan surpasses Georgia. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wyoming.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, New Jersey, and Washington. There is one state with a reproduction rate below 1 and that is Mississippi.There’ve been a total 250,483 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.21%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 205. Illinois 151. California 112. Pennsylvania 110. Florida 87. Minnesota 67. Michigan 62. Kansas 60. Indiana 59. And Georgia 57. Globally, there are now 15,853,798 active cases.There are 528,852 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 173,632. India 45,439. Brazil 35,645. Italy 34,283. And France 28,383. There have now been 1,348,348 deaths worldwide. Up 30% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 18th, 2020. 800 Philadelphia-area nurses walked off the job yesterday, apparently burned out from record hospitalizations. The point of the strike is to pressure their hospital into increasing staff. Their union has pushed for bills requiring hospitals to set limits on how many patients a nurse cares for in a day.Similar concerns in Hungary as doctors there warn a lack of qualified ICU medical staff could lead to soaring deaths and a breakdown of the country’s health care system. The recent sharp rise in hospitalizations has led to a patient-to-doctor ratio of 20-to-1 in some ICUs.An analysis from the Federation of American Scientists says North Dakota’s coronavirus mortality rate is the highest of any U.S. state or country. 18.2 deaths per 1 million people. South Dakota is close behind at 17.4 deaths per million, that’s the third-worst rate in the world. The famous have gotten COVID, but so have the infamous. Doctors believe Harvey Weinstein, now an inmate in New York, has it. Sources say it’s anything but a mild case. He’s in isolation with a 101-degree temperature. And that’s on top of an existing heart condition, high blood pressure and spinal stenosis.  You’ll have to get your beads another way this Mardi Gras. New Orleans officials say parades will not be allowed at next year’s festival in mid-February. While it may not look like it, Mardi Gras is actually a religious holiday, and thus can’t be completely canceled.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Crowley, CO. Jones, TX. Lee, KY. Foster, ND. Dewey, SD. Stutsman, ND. Pierce, ND. Gray, TX. Johnson, NE. And Dade, MO. There are now 4,353,660 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Maryland, Georgia, and Michigan. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, Iowa, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Minnesota.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Rhode Island, and Washington. There is one state with a reproduction rate below 1 and that is Mississippi.There’ve been a total 248,555 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.23%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 117. Illinois 113. Wisconsin 92. Indiana 89. Florida 86. Michigan 80. Tennessee 72. Missouri 56. Alabama 52. And Georgia 41. Globally, there are now 15,636,601 active cases.There are 536,653 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 157,261. India 38,532. Brazil 35,018. Italy 32,191. And Russia 22,410. There have now been 1,336,892 deaths worldwide. Up 35% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 17th, 2020. A second experimental vaccine — this one from Moderna — appears to be 94.5% effective, according to preliminary data. It, along with Pfizer’s vaccine, is on track to seek permission within weeks for emergency use in the U.S. Both require two shots, given several weeks apart. Dr. Anthony Fauci is optimistic about vaccines but warns “it’s not going to be a light switch” back to normalcy. He recommends even after the vaccine gets distributed, people still wear masks and keep staying socially distant. This because even if the projected effectiveness rates are true, about 5% to 10% of people immunized could still get the virus.And for now, the virus rages on, with new lockdowns and reimposed restrictions after a week that saw more than a million new cases in the U.S. reported. In Chicago, a sweeping stay-at-home advisory. In Philadelphia, new restrictions expected Monday. If the positive testing rate in New York public schools goes over 3% that system will close. North Dakota has ordered masks in all indoor businesses and any public settings where physical distancing isn't possible. A limited mask mandate in Iowa. In Oklahoma all state workers wear masks and tables in restaurants must be 6 feet apart, and they and bars must close at 11pm. And in California the Governor is shutting down indoor activities for 94% of the state. What if the answer to COVID has always been on our bathroom counter? A study out of Cardiff University said mouthwashes that have at least .07% of an incredient called CDC shows promising signs of combatting the virus. But don’t go stock up on Scope just yet. The study has yet to be peer reviewed and you’d have to use the mouthwash within 30 seconds of being exposed to the virus.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Crowley, CO. Lee, KY. Jones, TX. Foster, ND. Dewey, SD. Stutsman, ND. Gray, TX. Johnson, NE. Walsh, ND. And Calhoun, IA. There are now 4,266,102 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Illinois, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, Maryland, Georgia, then Michigan. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Wyoming, and Minnesota.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, Vermont, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Alaska. There is one state with a reproduction rate below 1 and that is Mississippi.There’ve been a total 247,175 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.25%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 78. Michigan 55. Illinois and Arkansas 42. California 39. Florida 38. New York 36. Colorado 32. South Carolina 31. And Tennessee 30. Globally, there are now 15,525,843 active cases.There are 493,236 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 162,149. India 28,555. Italy 27,354. Russia 22,778. And the U.K. 21,363. There have now been 1,326,449 deaths worldwide. Up 34% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 16th, 2020. Tighter restriction across the country. In Indiana, no gatherings over 50 allowed, in some counties the cap is 25. And there’s a mask mandate. Washington state bans all indoor social gatherings outside of those you live with and bans indoor service at restaurants and bars. Retail businesses, including grocery, must limit to 25% of capacity. Non-essential businesses must close entirely.Los Angeles is considering a curfew after a fresh surge of cases this weekend. New cases topped 3,000 for two consecutive days. Saturday was the highest one-day total since the peak in mid-July. The county remains in the strictest tier of California’s reopening plan, so many businesses must stay closed for indoor operations. Germany’s Economy Minister said that country should brace for another 4-5 months of severe restrictions and not expect the rules to ease up quickly. It’s not what many wanted to hear. German police fired water cannons during an anti-lockdown rally in Frankfurt Saturday and broke up the gathering.You don’t want to be an inmate anyway, but especially during a pandemic. The University of Texas reports at least 231 people in Texas prisons and jails have died from COVID. Nine of the inmates who died were already approved for parole and awaiting release. And in county jails, 80% of those who died had not even been convicted yet of a crime.The CDC has made recommendations on how to have a safe Thanksgiving but a survey shows almost 40% of Americans are going to spend it with at least 10 other people, and more than one-third will not ask guests to wear masks. 27% don’t plan to practice social distancing before or after Thanksgiving dinner.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Crowley, CO. Lee, KY. Jones, TX. Dewey, SD. Foster, ND. Stutsman, ND. Jones, IA. Toole, MT. Calhoun, IA. And Gray, TX.There are now 4,178,917 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Illinois, Arizona, Texas, Missouri surpasses Virginia, Maryland overtakes Georgia, then New York. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Wyoming, and Wisconsin.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Vermont, Maine, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and New York. There are two states with a reproduction rate below 1 and they are Mississippi and Alabama.There’ve been a total 246,206 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.28%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Illinois 74. North Carolina 50. Massachusetts 36. Pennsylvania 32. Minnesota 31. Florida 30. Arkansas 24. South Dakota 23. Indiana 22. And New York and Colorado with 21. Globally, there are now 15,352,620 active cases.There are 487,083 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours against a high of 656,099 on November 12. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 138,249. Italy 33,979. India 30,715. France 27,228. And the U.K. 24,962. There have now been 1,316,623 deaths worldwide. Up 35% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 13th, 2020. More restrictions for Chicago. A 10-person limit any social gatherings and Mayor Lori Lightfoot said, “cancel the normal Thanksgiving plans.” Indoor dining was already banned, now residents are urged to not go out for anything other than essentials possibly for 30 days. A month ago, Chicago was reporting 500 daily cases on average. Now, the city is averaging roughly 1,900 daily cases. The CDC is projecting 260,000 to 282,000 coronavirus deaths by December 5. Another widely-used Covid-19 model run by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation is predicting 438,941 deaths by March 1. And that’s if states do not relax restrictions and mask mandates.Massachusetts was seen as a model for infection control this summer. But deaths there have now surpassed 10,000. Massachusetts has the sixth-highest death toll in the U.S. behind New York, Texas, California, New Jersey and Florida. And California has become the second state in the U.S. to top one million cumulative Covid cases a week after Texas hit that mark.A CDC report tells us disruptions to daily life, anxiety about getting Covid-19, and social isolation are taking a toll on children's mental health. From the middle of March to October, the proportion of ER visits related to children's mental health rose dramatically for school-aged children and adolescents compared to the previous year. Those 12-17 seem to have been hit hardest. The rule at Costco is everyone has to wear a mask, but some people won’t, citing medical reasons that they can’t. Some even have official-looking cards that say they don’t have to. But the company has now said if you can’t wear a mask for medical reasons, fine. But you’ll have to wear a face shield instead.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Childress, TX. Jones, TX. Jones, IA. Calhoun, IA. Eddy, ND. Dewey, SD. Norton, KS. Toole, MT. Gray, TX. And Walsh, ND. There are now 3,897,231 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Illinois overtakes Arizona, Texas, Virginia, Missouri, Georgia, Maryland, and Michigan and New York surpass Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, Vermont, New York, Minnesota, and Washington. There is one state with a reproduction rate below 1 and that is Mississippi.There’ve been a total 242,622 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.35%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 157. Florida 77. Georgia 75. Wisconsin 58. Pennsylvania 57. Indiana 51. Michigan 49. Illinois 48. And Minnesota and Louisiana with 39. Globally, there are now 14,576,345 active cases.There are 618,441 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours and that is a new all-time record high. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 161,541. India 43,861. Italy 37,978. Brazil 34,640. And the U.K. 33,470. There have now been 1,291,937 deaths worldwide. Up 37% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 12th, 2020. Texas became America's first state with more than 1 million cumulative confirmed COVID-19 cases. In the state, sporting events are being canceled and El Paso is adding mobile morgues in anticipation of deaths to come. Texas recorded more than 10,800 new cases Tuesday, a new daily record. Another milestone, the U.K. yesterday became the fifth country to record more than 50,000 coronavirus-related deaths at 50,365. And that figure could be low. The total does not include those who died of COVID-related symptoms after 28 days.Russia not to be outdone after Pfizer’s vaccine news. Developers of their Sputnik V experimental vaccine say their early data from a large trial suggests it appears to be 92% effective. It’s a two-shot vaccine touted as the world's first to get the go ahead from a government, which it got without completing advanced testing. According to a Gallup poll, 49% of Americans say they’d be very likely to stay home for a month if health officials recommended another total lockdown. Sounds like a lot, but it’s actually way down from 67% who said that in late March and early April. A full third said they’d be very or somewhat unlikely to comply.When will people be able to go to concerts again? Ticketmaster is trying to figure that out. They’re developing a plan for event operators. One idea, syncing attendees’ COVID vaccine status or test results from healthcare providers to their digital tickets before they’ll be allowed entry. Ticketmaster stressed it would not have access to customers’ medical records.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Childress, TX. Jones, IA. Calhoun, IA. Norton, KS. Eddy, ND. Walsh, ND. Toole, MT. Dewey, SD. Cavalier, ND. And Hodgeman, KS. There are now 3,812,554 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Illinois, Texas, Virginia, Missouri, Georgia, Maryland, and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, Vermont, New York, Illinois, and Iowa. There are two states with a reproduction rate below 1 and they are Mississippi and North Carolina.There’ve been a total 241,047 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.37%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Illinois 153. Texas 120. Tennessee 89. Alabama 81. Georgia 76. Ohio 68. Wisconsin and Pennsylvania 62. Minnesota 58. And Florida 48. Globally, there are now 14,467,039 active cases.There are 566,757 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours compared to a high of 605,573 on November 5. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 142,808. India 48,285. Brazil 47,724. France 35,879. And Italy 32,961. There have now been 1,282,184 deaths worldwide. Up 41% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 11th, 2020. The U.S. hit a record number of coronavirus hospitalizations yesterday and surpassed 1 million new cases in just the first 10 days of November. The new wave appears bigger and more widespread than spring and summer. But it’s also believed the nation is now better able to deal with the virus.The top health official for Toronto says the spread has never been greater so she’s ordering the complete prohibition of indoor dining to continue. And six weeks after reopening, San Francisco is also shutting down indoor dining. Cases there have skyrocketed 250%. Tragic news about those who survive Covid-19. An Oxford study says almost 20% of survivors are diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder within three months of testing positive. The most frequent disorders are anxiety, depression, and insomnia. The CDC said wearing a mask not only protects others from the spread of Covid-19, it protects the wearer too. It’s their strongest messaging yet on face coverings. The CDC also said that "adopting universal masking policies can help avert future lockdowns." The CDC also gave its most robust guidelines yet for how Americans should celebrate Thanksgiving. The preference is that you do so only with people in your household. But if you must have others over, everyone should wear full fitting masks and stay distant from each other. Other suggestions: have people bring their own plate, cups, and utensils, have single-use condiment packages, and eat outside. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Childress, TX. Jones, IA. Toole, MT. Calhoun, IA. Norton, KS. Eddy, ND. Walsh, ND. Cavalier, ND. Dewey, SD. And Buffalo, SD. There are now 3,712,054 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Illinois, Texas, Virginia, Missouri, Georgia, Maryland, and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Nebraska.The reproduction rate is currently highest in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Oregon, and Nebraska. There are three states with a reproduction rate below 1 and they are Mississippi, North Carolina, and Kentucky.There’ve been a total 239,618 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.38%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 123. Michigan 84. Illinois 82. Florida 74. Indiana 67. Wisconsin 66. California 65. Tennessee 62. Pennsylvania 58. And Georgia 53. Globally, there are now over 14 million active cases, at 14,134,026.There are 518,563 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours compared to a high of 605,573 on November 5. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 135,574. India 44,679. Italy 35,098. Brazil 25,517. And Poland 25,454. There have now been 1,270,167 deaths worldwide. Up 39% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 10th, 2020. Pfizer said its vaccine may be 90% effective. The tests are early and incomplete. They’ll next apply later this month for emergency-use FDA approval. If that goes well, the vaccine could arrive before the end of the year. Speaking of the FDA, it cleared emergency use of the first antibody drug to help the immune system fight COVID-19. The experimental drug is from Eli Lilly and for people 12 and older with mild or moderate cases not requiring hospitalization. It's a one-time treatment given through an IV.The final-stage trial of a Chinese frontrunner vaccine candidate was halted in Brazil due to a serious adverse event. Brazil will not say what that adverse event was. Vaccines from China, including the one in question, have already been given to hundreds of thousands of people under an expansive emergency use approval. Masks are now required in Utah. The Governor declared a state of emergency and ordered the mandate to stem a surge in hospitalizations. Masks must be worn in public, at work and any time citizens are within 6 feet of anyone who doesn’t live with them. The Governor said the debate about freedom to not wear a mask is over. And New York is exercising a way to punish private businesses that don’t follow coronavirus restrictions. Gov. Andrew Cuomo said a Long Island country club’s liquor license was suspended because it hosted a wedding linked to 34 cases.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Childress, TX. Norton, KS. Jones, IA. Toole, MT. Calhoun, IA. Eddy, ND. Walsh, ND. Cavalier, ND. Dewey, SD. And Hodgeman, KS. There are now 3,624,898 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Illinois, Texas surpasses Virginia, Missouri, Georgia, Maryland, and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Wisconsin, and Illinois.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Maine, Vermont, Iowa, Connecticut, and New Hampshire. There are two states with a retransmission rate below 1 and they are Mississippi and North Carolina. There’ve been a total 238,202 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.41%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 58. Texas 44. Indiana 35. New York and Michigan 32. Georgia 29. California and West Virginia 28. Connecticut 27. And Illinois 25. Globally, there are 13,921,320 active cases.There are 485,142 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours compared to a high of 605,573 on November 5. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 125,689. India 37,211. Italy 25,271. Russia 21,798. And Poland 21,713. There have now been 1,262,413 deaths worldwide. Up 39% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 9th, 2020. The United States heads for close to 10 million cumulative coronavirus cases, with over 9.9 million reported cases as of last night according to Johns Hopkins data. All the numbers are going up; cases, hospitalizations, and daily deaths. Texas alone is inching toward 1 million total cases. Sixteen states reported record high hospitalizations Friday.  In Germany, resistance to “lockdown light.” Officials condemned the actions of 20,000 people who demonstrated against restrictions in a Leipzig city square, most without wearing masks. An investigation has been called for to determine how the protest was able to get out of control.For an example of increasing control, look no further than Greece. That country is not only under a nationwide lockdown, those who live there must text authorities if they want to leave their homes for any reason. They must provide their name, address and why they need to go out. Students attending any of New York’s public universities in the spring will be required to quarantine at home for a week first and be tested for COVID-19, either at home or on campus. Classes will start later than usual, Feb. 1, and spring break has been eliminated. Graduation plans even for the Class of 2021 are anticipating having to be virtual.Vermont has regularly been near the top of the list of states with the highest virus retransmission rates, but ski season is coming, and the slopes will be open. For Vermont, it’s a $1.6 billion business. There are restrictions, which potential visitors are already complaining about. But from Sept. 1 through Nov. 4, the number of confirmed cases in the state has risen more than 38%. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Childress, TX. Norton, KS. Jones, IA. Eddy, ND. Calhoun, IA. Walsh, ND. Toole, MT. Cavalier, ND. Hodgeman, KS. And Potter, SD. There are now 3,561,292 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Illinois jumps to number 4, Virginia, Texas, Missouri surpasses Georgia, then Maryland and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Wisconsin, and Iowa.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Maine with a very high rate of 1.52, then Iowa, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Illinois. There are two states with a retransmission rate below 1 and they are Mississippi and North Carolina. There’ve been a total 237,566 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.43%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Illinois 50. Texas and Indiana 39. Minnesota 31. Missouri 24. Florida and South Carolina 21. And New York, Louisiana, and Massachusetts all with 20. Globally, there are now over 13 million active cases at 13,675,944.There are 574,394 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours compared to a high of 605,573 on November 5. The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 102,726. India 46,661. France 38,619. Italy 32,616. And Poland 24,785.  There have now been 1,255,489 deaths worldwide. Up 35% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 6th, 2020.Dr. Anthony Fauci has in the past said expect a “whole lot of pain” going into the winter months of the pandemic. Now he’s gotten more specific. It’s smaller cities who should be on guard, especially in the northwest and central U.S. This mostly because they lack the resources and experience with the virus larger city hospitals have. Example, El Paso, TX, where hospitalizations have tripled in a little over two weeks.The National Health Service in England has gone to its highest alert level. That means staff can be moved around the country, and patients can be sent to other regions for treatment if local services are overwhelmed.A Missouri elections supervisor who knew they tested positive and worked at a polling site on Election Day anyway has died. It’s unclear what caused the death, but the positive test was on Oct. 30 and the official failed to isolate for the recommended two-week period.The CDC says health care workers will almost certainly get the first doses of any COVID-19 vaccine in the U.S. once approved. Not just doctors and nurses, but even support personnel. It’s expected those first vaccine doses will roll out in December or early January.However, while the world waits for a vaccine, the world is also increasingly saying, they won’t take it. A World Economic Forum survey shows the number of people globally saying they would get the vaccine is actually dropping. Across 15 countries, intent is down 4 points to 73% since August.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Luce, MI. Norton, KS. Toole, MT. Bon Homme, SD. Walsh, ND. Cavalier, ND. Wells, ND. Potter, SD. Ellsworth, KS. And San Saba, TX.There are now 3,338,097 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Virginia, Texas surpasses Georgia, Illinois, Missouri, Maryland, and Alabama.The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Wisconsin, and Montana.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Maine, Vermont, Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska. There is only one state with a retransmission rate below 1 and that is Mississippi. There’ve been a total 234,911 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.49%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 126. Illinois 97. Georgia 56. Michigan 51. California 48. Indiana 47. Florida and Pennsylvania 42. North Carolina 41. And Wisconsin 38.Globally, there are now 12,797,974 active cases.There are 589,701 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, which sets another new record one day high.The five countries with the most new cases: the United States 118,204. France 58,046. India 47,622. Italy 34,505. And Poland 27,143. There have now been 1,232,214 deaths worldwide. Up 31% over 14 days. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 5th, 2020. Only nine ICU beds were available in Minnesota’s Twin Cities yesterday morning. Plus, nurses and other caregivers can’t work because they are infected or under required quarantines. COVID-19 ICU admissions have doubled since late September but aren’t taking up most of the beds. They still only make up 18% of ICU usage. Italy’s latest restrictions include a partial lockdown of the region around Milan. The country has been divided into three zones - red, orange and yellow, according to the intensity of the epidemic. In red zones, citizens can only leave home for work, health reasons or emergencies, and bars, restaurants and most shops are closed. Greece is facing a universal month-long lockdown as a spike in cases hits new records. It will be their second and could be in place as early as tomorrow. Health officials in South Korea have approved a new test that apparently detects COVID-19 and seasonal influenza from the same samples. Those illnesses are hard to tell apart based on symptoms, so having a diagnosis for both in three to six hours is expected to lighten the burden on medical workers. A Texas veterinarian is just one of many who’ve been tracking the spread of COVID in pets. Dr. Sarah Hamer has swabbed not just dogs and cats, but hamsters and guinea pigs. She’s found at least 19 cases of infection. Nationwide, cats and dogs who caught it from sick owners represent 80% of positive cases. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Luce, MI. Norton, KS. Bon Homme, SD. Ellsworth, KS. Toole, MT. San Saba, TX. Wells, ND. Sheridan, KS. Potter, SD. And Walsh, ND. There are now 3,269,507 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Virginia, Georgia, Texas, Illinois overtakes Missouri, Maryland, and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Dakota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Montana.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Maine, Vermont, Minnesota, Iowa, and Rhode Island. There is only one state with a retransmission rate below 1 and that is Mississippi.  There’ve been a total 233,633 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.50%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 150. California 67. Illinois 55. Wisconsin 54. North Carolina 50. Missouri 44. Georgia and Ohio 43. Florida 42. And Pennsylvania 41. Globally, there are now 12,271,877 active cases.There are 491,692 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 550,012 on October 30.  The five countries with the most new cases: United States crosses the 100,000 cases in one day mark with 108,389. India 50,465. France 40,558. Italy 30,550. And the U.K. 25,177.  There have now been 1,224,144 deaths worldwide. Up 24% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 4th, 2020. The number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 is reaching record highs in a growing number of states. Missouri, Oklahoma, Iowa, Indiana, Nebraska, North Dakota and New Mexico all reported record high hospitalizations this week. Nebraska’s largest hospitals started limiting elective surgeries. Officials in Iowa and Missouri warned bed capacity could soon be overwhelmed.In a departure from its less strict approach to the pandemic, Sweden announced new restrictions. People must work from home if possible, avoid indoor spaces, and only have physical contact with people in the same household.  50% effective in preventing or reducing the severity of the coronavirus, that’s the bar the FDA says a vaccine has to reach. No vaccine is 100% effective, but even at 50%, experts say it could help. Even the flu vaccine’s effectiveness varies from year to year, from 20 to 60%. A study out of Mount Sinai says almost 20% of New York City residents were infected with Covid. That’s about 1.7 million people. The same study shows its fatality rate is 10 times deadlier than the flu. The testing found positive cases going back to February, suggesting that New Yorkers were infected with Covid-19 weeks before its first reported case. The celebrity infection of the day is…Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway. The Denver Broncos said their president of football operations and general manager is experiencing mild symptoms. Elway is quarantining at home.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Norton, KS. Bon Homme, SD. Ellsworth, KS. Wallace, KS. San Saba, TX. Wells, ND. Sheridan, KS. Walsh, ND. Potter, SD. And Bennett, SD. There are now 3,217,717 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Virginia, Georgia, Texas, Missouri, Illinois, Maryland, and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Dakota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Montana, and Wyoming.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Vermont, Wyoming, Nebraska, Rhode Island, and Iowa. There are two states with a retransmission rate below 1 and they are Mississippi and North Carolina.  There’ve been a total 232,553 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.51%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 92. Tennessee 75. Illinois 68. North Carolina 67. California 60. Florida 55. Wisconsin 52. Indiana 49. Michigan 45. And Arizona 38. Globally, there are now 12,271,877 active cases.There are 508,190 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 550,012 on October 30.  The five countries with the most new cases: United States 94,463. India 46,033. France 36,330. Italy 28,244. And the U.K. 20,018.  There have now been 1,212,844 deaths worldwide. Up 25% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 3rd, 2020. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports more than 61,000 children in the U.S. were diagnosed with Covid-19 last week — more than any other week during the pandemic. 853,635 children have been diagnosed this year, representing 11.1% of all U.S. cases. One struggling world hot spot is Belgium. Strict new lockdowns are in place, and many hospitals are overwhelmed. In one city between one-fifth and one-quarter of medical staff were sick or quarantining, and even those who are positive but asymptomatic are being told to show up for work.Germany began a month-long partial shutdown yesterday. Restaurants, bars, theaters, and other leisure facilities have been shut down. It’s considered lockdown light because, schools, non-essential shops and hairdressers are allowed to stay open. The government said last week authorities currently cannot trace the source of three-quarters of infections.A non-peer-reviewed study by the UK coronavirus immunology consortium suggests T-cell immunity against the virus is likely to stay in most adults six months after primary infection. Plus, levels of T-cell immunity are higher in patients with symptoms.Want job security? Become a nurse. Medical administrators are having trouble finding them and it’s gotten very competitive between hospitals. We’re talking signing bonuses of $15,000 and pay in some places going up to $5,000/week. Contract nurses willing to travel are in particularly hot demand. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bon Homme, SD. Norton, KS. San Saba, TX. Buffalo, SD. Wells, ND. Wallace, KS. Ellsworth, KS. Carter, MT. Sheridan, KS. And Bennett, SD. There are now 3,159,144 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Virginia, Texas overtakes Georgia, Missouri, Illinois overtakes Maryland, and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are South Dakota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Montana, and Wyoming.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Wyoming, Rhode Island, Vermont, Iowa, and Connecticut. There are two states with a retransmission rate below 1 and they are Mississippi and Florida.  There’ve been a total 231,510 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.53%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 48. Florida 41. Ohio 37. Iowa and Arkansas 27. Tennessee and Indiana 26. California 22. And Illinois and Georgia 18. Globally, there are now over 12 million active cases, at 12,073,379.There are 477,107 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 550,012 on October 30.  The five countries with the most new cases: United States 88,905. France 52,518. India 37,592. Italy 22,253. And Switzerland 21,926.  There have now been 1,205,221 deaths worldwide. Up 26% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for November 2nd, 2020. If some in England were upset about a new one-month lockdown, they won’t be pleased to hear it may go longer than that. So says a Cabinet minister. Britain has the worst virus death toll in Europe, with more than 46,700 dead. It passed 1 million confirmed cases Saturday. Owners of pubs, restaurants, theaters, and gyms all say the lockdown will be devastating.Across all of Europe, new cases have doubled in five weeks to over 10 million total infections. Last month, Latin America and Asia also reported over 10 million total cases in their regions. It took Europe almost nine months to record its first 5 million cases, but the next 5 million took place in just over one month.In Slovakia, they feel mass testing is the answer and that’s exactly what they’ve done. Swabs from more than two and half million people were taken this weekend, that’s about half the country’s entire population. It took 40,000 medics at about 5,000 sites. The testing was voluntary. But those who decline must go into self-isolation or face fines.A CDC report suggests getting the virus from someone you live with can be quick and easy, regardless of age. 53% of participants living with someone who tested positive wound up sick themselves within 5 days.Add Prince William to the list of celebrities who have battled COVID-19. He says he “struggled to breathe” after being struck down. He kept the diagnosis a secret because he didn’t want to alarm the nation. He caught it in April days after his dad, Prince Charles, and Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, tested positive.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bon Homme, SD. Norton, KS. Buffalo, SD. San Saba, TX. Elliott, KY. Wallace, KS. Ellsworth, KS. Sheridan, KS. Dewey, SD. And Wells, ND. There are now over 3 million active cases in the United States at 3,133,835. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Virginia, Georgia, Texas, Missouri, Maryland, Illinois, and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Montana, and Alaska.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Rhode Island, Vermont, Wyoming, Connecticut, and Iowa. There are two states with a retransmission rate below 1 and they are Mississippi and Florida.  There’ve been a total 230,967 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.55%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Illinois 35. Texas and Arkansas 33. Indiana 32. Florida 27. Massachusetts 22. New York 19. Minnesota 18. Wisconsin 16. And Mississippi 14. Globally, there are now 11,850,938 active cases.There are 407,978 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 550,012 on October 30.  The five countries with the most new cases: United States 71,321. India 46,441. France 46,290. Italy 29,907. And the U.K. 23,254.  There have now been 1,199,684 deaths worldwide. Up 19% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 30th, 2020. The number of new cases around the world in the last 24 hours surpasses a half a million and sets a new record. More stats in a moment.Research which has not yet been peer reviewed shows a variant of the coronavirus believed to have originated in Spain has spread across Europe and is accounting for most of the new cases in that region. The variant has increased from “very low” values prior to July 15 to 40 to 70% in Switzerland, Ireland, and the U.K. in September. It’s also prevalent in Norway, Latvia, the Netherlands, and France.Speaking of France, doctors there are relieved and business owners in despair as that country prepares to lock down for a month. COVID patients now fill 60% of French intensive care units, and France is reporting tens of thousands of new cases daily. India’s cumulative coronavirus caseload surpassed 8 million yesterday, even though daily infections dipped to the lowest level this week. India’s overall trajectory is moving toward the worst-hit country, the United States, which has over 8.8 million cases.In Michigan restaurants it’ll be “can I take your order and get your phone number?” Starting Monday, a new policy requires restaurants to get the names and numbers of customers for tracking in case of COVID-19 outbreaks. Take your pick, making it easy for citizens to vote or COVID safety. Hundreds of polling places in Iowa have been closed, reportedly due to the pandemic. Overall, this affects some 670,000 Iowans, 30% of the state's registered voters. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bon Homme, SD. Elliott, KY. Carter, MT. Buffalo, SD. Okfuskee, OK. Kusilvak Census Area, AK. Norton, KS. Wallace, KS. Oglala Lakota, SD. And Ellsworth, KS. There are 2,995,245 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Virginia overtakes Georgia, Texas, Missouri, Maryland, Illinois, and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Montana, and Idaho.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Wyoming, Vermont, Rhode Island, Minnesota, and New Mexico. There are two states with a retransmission rate below 1 and they are Mississippi and Oklahoma.  There’ve been a total 228,647 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.59%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 113. Florida 82. Illinois 56. Wisconsin 51. Georgia and Michigan 47. Missouri 46. North Carolina and Pennsylvania 38. And Indiana 33. Globally, there are now 11,142,220 active cases.There are 505,367 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, and that sets a new all-time high.  The five countries with the most new cases: United States 91,530. India 49,281. France 47,637. Italy 26,831. And Brazil 26,647.  There have now been 1,180,277 deaths worldwide. Up 17% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 29th, 2020. It’s a full nationwide lockdown for France. And in Germany, it’s “lockdown lite,” a partial four-week lockdown and the first curfew in Berlin in 70 years. The World Health Organization says the European region, which includes Russia, Turkey, Israel, and Central Asia, accounted for almost half the new cases reported globally last week. Virus-related deaths were also on the rise in Europe, with about a 35% spike from the previous week.The U.S. government issued rules for insurance coverage to ensure every American will have access to free COVID-19 vaccines once approved. Workplace and individual insurance plans will cover the vaccine as a preventive service, with no cost sharing. Those vaccinating the uninsured will be paid through a federal fund.Cause to celebrate, safely, in Melbourne, Australia. The country’s second-largest city has emerged from one of the world’s longest, most severe lockdowns yesterday. It lasted 111 days, but no new infections were recorded Monday. So yesterday, thousands of stores, cafes, restaurants, and beauty salons reopened.On the flipside, one of the last nations on Earth to never have had one coronavirus infection, has lost that honor. Two cases were confirmed on the remote Marshall Islands. Both were workers on a US military base.The Dodgers clinched the World Series. But not before it was learned during the seventh inning third baseman Justin Turner tested positive. He was pulled from the game and put in isolation, but when the team won, he joined his team on the field for the celebration.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bon Homme, SD. Norton, KS. Elliott, KY. Okfuskee, OK. Kusilvak Census Area, AK. Carter, MT. Buffalo, SD. Oglala Lakota, SD. Eddy, ND. And Faulk, SD. There are 2,954,409 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Texas overtakes Missouri, then Maryland, and Illinois overtakes Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Montana, and Idaho.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Vermont, Wyoming, Rhode Island, Minnesota, and New Mexico. There is only one state with a retransmission rate below 1 and that is Mississippi. There’ve been a total 227,673 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.61%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 97. Florida 64. California 63. Illinois 51. Wisconsin 45. Massachusetts 36. North Carolina, Tennessee, and South Carolina with 34. And Indiana 33. Globally, there are now 10,845,371 active cases.There are 452,310 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 499,200 on October 23.  The five countries with the most new cases: United States 81,581. India 49,912. France 36,437. Brazil 28,852. And Italy 24,991. There have now been 1,173,270 deaths worldwide. Up 16% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 28th, 2020. A CDC survey says more Americans are wearing masks than early last spring, but young people are least likely to do that or take the other steps suggested to slow spread of the virus. Up to 89% of Americans are now wearing masks. But other behaviors like hand washing and distancing just aren’t being embraced, with 18 to 29-year-olds less likely to take any measure at all.As high as mask usage is, apparently not so much in the hot spot of North Dakota. Dr. Deborah Birx met with state and local officials there and said mask usage is inadequate. She said, “This is the least use of masks we’ve seen in retail establishments of any place we’ve been." It’s one of 15 states that has no mask mandate.A place that has no problem enforcing a mask mandate, Russia. Vladimir Putin instituted a nationwide mask mandate yesterday. They are required in crowded public spaces including public transit, parking lots and elevators. Bars and restaurants are also closed between 11pm and 6am.In Chicago, you’ll have to get your deep dish pizza to go. Illinois’ Governor banned indoor dining and bar services and limited the number of people who can gather in any one place. Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot says the new restrictions aren’t targeting the right people.You may want to eat more sardines. Researchers in Spain found 82% of hospitalized patients with Covid-19 were clinically deficient in vitamin D. Experts point out that despite the study, it cannot be concluded vitamin D deficiency is responsible for higher chances of being hospitalized with Covid-19. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bon Homme, SD. Norton, KS. Elliott, KY. Okfuskee, OK. Buffalo, SD. Kusilvak Census Area, AK. Oglala Lakota, SD. Faulk, SD. Carter, MT. And Big Horn, MT. There are 2,927,982 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Missouri, Texas overtakes Maryland, Alabama, and Illinois. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Montana, and Idaho.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Wyoming, Rhode Island, Vermont, Colorado, and Illinois. There are three states with a retransmission rate below 1 and they are Mississippi, North Carolina, and Maine. There’ve been a total 226,613 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.62%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 78. Texas 74. Wisconsin 64. Missouri 54. Florida 53. Indiana 51. Illinois 46. Tennessee 44. North Carolina 41. And Michigan 33. Globally, there are now over 10,620,603 active cases.There are 452,983 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 499,200 October 23.  The five countries with the most new cases: United States 75,072. India 42,965. France 33,417. Brazil 29,353. And the U.K. 22,885. There have now been 1,165,455 deaths worldwide. Up 12% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 27th, 2020. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports children account for 11% of all Covid-19 cases in the US, and that is a 14% increase over the past two weeks. About 792,188 children have been infected in the US as of October 22, with children representing between 1 and 3.6% of total hospitalizations, depending on the state. The National Institutes of Health stopped a trial of Eli Lilly’s monoclonal antibody being tested in late stage hospitalized COVID patients, deciding it was unlikely to help. A similar trial in patients at an earlier stage of virus continues. Lilly says the drug’s not dangerous, just not effective in advanced patients.In many U.S. states, hospitalizations are on the rise. In Texas, some critical care patients at hospitals in El Paso are being airlifted to other medical facilities to cope with hospital capacity. Wisconsin hospital beds are at 82% capacity. Utah, a record number of patients in ICU, with 111 of 314 COVID-19 patients in intensive care. North Dakota has around 14% of bed capacity left available. Tennessee has 18% left. And in Wyoming, COVID hospitalizations peaked Sunday at 104. If you’re counting on contact tracing to help with the pandemic, maybe don’t. In New Jersey, 58% of people called refuse to cooperate with contact tracers who reach out to them. Amidst the coronavirus pandemic, world scientists are asking, where did the flu go? Data collected by the World Health Organization in the Southern Hemisphere, where the flu season happens earlier, shows that in Australia, cases dropped 96%. In South Africa, there were only two cases, then none. Globally, it’s estimated rates of flu may have plunged 98% this year. There are several theories as to why but no one fully embraced answer. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Norton, KS. Bon Homme, SD. Elliott, KY. Okfuskee, OK. Faulk, SD. Kusilvak Census Area, AK. Oglala Lakota, SD. Buffalo, SD. Menominee, WI. And Carter, MT.There are 2,897,914 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Missouri, Maryland, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Montana, and Idaho.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Rhode Island, Vermont, Wyoming, New Jersey, and Colorado. There is now only one state with a retransmission rate below 1 and that is Mississippi. There’ve been a total 225,689 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.63%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 52. California 43. Tennessee 32. Washington 31. Michigan 30. South Carolina and Arkansas 21. Florida 19. Georgia 18. And Illinois, Louisiana, and Massachusetts all with 17. Globally, there are now 10,432,419 active cases.There are 402,994 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 499,200 on October 23.  The five countries with the most new cases: United States 69,841. India 36,838. France 26,771. The U.K. 20,890. And Switzerland 17,440. There have now been 1,158,882 deaths worldwide. Up 2% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 26th, 2020. The U.S. has seen its highest ever number of new COVID-19 cases in the past two days, as close aides to the Vice President have tested positive. Hospitalizations are also rising and have hit a two-month high. El Paso, Texas asked residents to stay home for two weeks as the number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients in that area tripled. Europe reported more than 1.3 million new cases this past week, its highest single week count ever. The Spanish Prime Minister declared a national state of emergency yesterday, with a nighttime curfew and possible travel restrictions between regions. Italy imposed the harshest new measures since its lockdown in the spring. And the President of Poland and Prime Minister of Bulgaria have tested positive. New York Sunday became the fourth state to surpass half a million coronavirus cases amid a nationwide surge. 80% more cases in the past four weeks compared to the previous four weeks. Still, although the state has reported 2,000 new daily cases twice recently, that’s far from their record of 12,847 new cases April 10.When it comes to superspreader events, it appears to be weddings that are earning that moniker. Party and event planners say business is picking up. Weddings are slowly resuming across the country. Website The Knot says 52% of couples were postponing in April but that has dropped to 35%. Minnesota last week identified 77 cases directly linked to one wedding in late August. And in Maine, there were 178 cases and eight deaths linked to an August 7 wedding and reception last week. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Norton, KS. Bon Homme, SD. Okfuskee, OK. Faulk, SD. Harding, SD. Oglala Lakota, SD. Carter, MT. Menominee, WI. Sheridan, KS. And the Kusilvak Census Area, AK. There are 2,886,171 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Missouri, Maryland, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, and Idaho.The retransmission rate is currently highest in New Jersey, Rhode Island, Minnesota, Colorado, and Alabama. There are now only 3 states with a retransmission rate below 1. They are Mississippi, Florida, and Maine. There’ve been a total 225,215 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.65%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Missouri 95. Texas 40. Tennessee 31. Massachusetts 25. Illinois 24. Minnesota 21. Louisiana 17. Arkansas 15. North Carolina 13. And California and Indiana 12.  Globally, there are now over 10 million active cases, at 10,268,529.There are 372,220 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 499,200 October 23.  The five countries with the most new cases: United States 60,889. France 52,010. India 45,158. Italy 21,273. And the UK 19,790. There have now been 1,152,773 deaths worldwide. Flat over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 23rd, 2020. They were in a hybrid reopening phase, but now school districts in Boston and Chicago have sent students home for all virtual learning. The big reason, spikes in nearby suburbs. This after San Francisco public school officials decided not to bring students back before the end of the calendar year.The FDA approved the first drug to treat COVID-19, and it’s Remdesivir, an antiviral medicine given to patients through an IV. A large study led by the NIH showed the drug cut the time to recovery by five days. It works by inhibiting a substance the virus uses to copy itself. Spain and France each surpassed 1 million confirmed coronavirus cases this week. Europe is battling outbreaks and record numbers throughout the continent. Spain and France now have the sixth and seventh highest global counts, respectively.France announced a vast extension of the nightly curfew it already had in place, saying “the second wave is here.” The curfew is being extended from eight regions of France to 38 more regions and Polynesia. And it will probably last at least six weeks.If you must travel somewhere, Costa Rica is a possibility. Starting October 26th, they’ll eliminate the negative coronavirus test requirement for foreign tourists. You also wouldn’t have to quarantine upon entering. You will, however, still need to buy travel medical insurance from one of two Costa Rican companies and complete the Health Pass epidemiological form. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Norton, KS. Bon Homme, SD. Miner, SD. Harding, SD. Faulk, SD. Sheridan, KS. Carter, MT. Foster, ND. Menominee, WI. And Webster, NE.There are 2,777,969 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Missouri, Maryland, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, and Nebraska.The retransmission rate is currently highest in New Jersey, Rhode Island, Colorado, Vermont, and Ohio. While the lowest retransmission is found in Mississippi, Maine, Delaware, California, and Oregon. There’ve been a total 223,000 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.7%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 92. California 71. Florida 63. North Carolina 50. South Carolina 47. Michigan 46. Illinois and Indiana 44. Tennessee 41. And Ohio 39. Globally, there are 9,664,738 active cases.There are 443,907 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, and that sets another new all time high.  The five countries with the most new cases: United States 74,301. India 54,482. France 41,622. Brazil 31,985. And the UK 21,242. There have now been 1,135,880 deaths worldwide. Down 5% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 22nd, 2020.A volunteer in Brazil participating in a clinical trial of AstraZeneca’s vaccine died. However, the 28-year-old medic did not get the vaccine. He was given the placebo. It’s  not known how exactly he contracted the virus but he died from complications during the trial, which is continuing.How close is too close? The CDC has redefined what counts as close contact. It was a straight 15 minutes within 6 feet of someone who’s positive. Now it’s a total of 15 minutes or more — meaning shorter but repeated contacts adding up to 15 minutes over 24-hours. The change serves notice the virus can spread more easily than many people realize.Coronavirus hospitalizations are now on the rise in 38 states, Particularly concerning is the rise in Wisconsin. Hospitalizations there have more than tripled over the last month. And, doctors say patients are coming in with noticeably more severe symptoms than at the beginning of the pandemic.Spain became the first country in western Europe to accumulate more than 1 million confirmed COVID-19 infections. And they’re struggling to contain a resurgence. They’re beginning to close borders to hard hit regions but are trying to avoid a second devastating total lockdown.An Associated Press survey shows the pandemic has made 25% of full-time workers consider quitting their jobs. Younger workers, and those with lower household incomes, were most likely to think about it. 28% have cut back on their hours, and 20% have had to take leave. On the positive side, more than 80% had a positive view of how their employer responded to the pandemic.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Norton, KS. Bon Homme, SD. Miner, SD. Sheridan, KS. Harding, SD. Carter, MT. Webster, NE. Faulk, SD. Buffalo, SD. And Menominee, WI.There are 2,755,294 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona overtakes Georgia, Virginia, Missouri, Maryland, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois.The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, and Nebraska.The retransmission rate is currently highest in New Jersey, Wyoming, Vermont, New Mexico, and Illinois. While the lowest retransmission is found in Mississippi, Maine, Texas, California, and Delaware.There’ve been a total 221,990 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.7%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 131. Texas 106. Florida 100. Illinois 68. Ohio 67. Kansas 56. Wisconsin 48. North Carolina 40. Pennsylvania 39. Michigan and Minnesota 35.Globally, the number of active cases has crossed 9 million at 9,424,646.There are 384,890 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours.The five countries with the most new cases: United States 63,663. India 56,000. The U.K. 26,688. France 26,676. Brazil 25,832.There have now been 1,129,710 deaths worldwide. Down 7% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 21st, 2020. As cases in the U.S. surge, testing is still a problem. According to an NBC News analysis, testing rates have fallen in several states where cases are increasing. As many as 30 states and territories have seen cases increase more than 25% in the last two weeks. Only 21 saw increases in testing at or above that level during the same period.Ten people at a nursing home in Norton, Kansas have died after an outbreak of Covid-19 infected every single resident. 62 residents in all. Some staff members have also tested positive, and the rest are being tested.The British government yesterday seemed ready to impose strict coronavirus restrictions on Manchester after talks failed to reach an agreement. Greater Manchester’s Mayor has been seeking more financial support for workers and businesses affected by the restrictions.Not everyone gives “just the facts.” An AP poll shows Americans have lost trust across the board in all of the people and institutions tasked with keeping them informed about the coronavirus since the beginning of the pandemic. The family doctor ranks highest when it comes to whom Americans trust. You cannot shoot the coronavirus with a gun. However, more than a hundred thousand Californians have bought a gun since the pandemic began. Buyers cited concerns over civil unrest, but experts worry about suicides, domestic violence, and accidents by untrained new gun owners.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Norton, KS. Bon Homme, SD. Miner, SD. Sheridan, KS. Harding, SD. Carter, MT. Foster, ND. Oliver, ND. Webster, NE. And Roosevelt, MT.There are 2,748,539 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Missouri, Maryland, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Utah, and Nebraska.The retransmission rate is currently highest in New Jersey, Wyoming, New Mexico, Alaska, and Illinois. While the lowest retransmission is found in Maine, Texas, Mississippi, Delaware, and North Carolina. There’ve been a total 220,944 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.71%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 85. Texas 81. North Carolina 53. Indiana 48. Illinois 41. Missouri 38. South Carolina 35. Wisconsin 33. Mississippi 31. And Tennessee 30. Globally, there are 9,275,532 active cases.There are 361,395 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 415,159.  The five countries with the most new cases: United States 61,429. India 54,422. Brazil 23,690. The UK 21,331. And France 20,468. There have now been 1,123,767 deaths worldwide. Down 11% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 20th, 2020. The CDC said if any passenger doesn’t comply with wearing a mask while traveling on any form of public transport, kick them off. In fact, masks should be worn anywhere people gather to catch public transport. Many transportation services have seen some strong resistance to mask wearing.Poland is turning its National Stadium in Warsaw into a field hospital to handle the surging number of infected. It’s expected to be operational within days. 500 beds at first with 50 being ICU, eventually getting to 1,000 beds. Iran did it yet again, beat the single-day death toll from the coronavirus. The last record set was less than a week ago. 337 dead confirmed Monday. Iranian media dubbed it “Black Monday.” Tehran has run out of ICU beds and nonemergency treatments have been suspended. Iran’s Health Ministry spokeswoman put the blame on Iranians, scolding them for not taking precautions.In the U.K., Wales became the second nation to shut down major parts of its economy as Prime Minister Boris Johnson resists calls to do the same throughout England. All non-essential retail, leisure, hospitality, and tourism businesses will close for two weeks starting 6pm Friday.CVS Health is hiring 15,000 full and part-time workers to handle the patients expected during the combination of flu season and Covid. All the big drugstore chains are expecting a rush if they get approval to administer Covid-19 vaccines once they’re approved. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Bon Homme, SD. Miner, SD. Sheridan, KS. Harding, SD. Carter, MT. Toole, MT. Foster, ND. Towner, ND. Oliver, ND. And Webster, NE. There are 2,728,163 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Missouri overtakes Maryland, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, and Nebraska.The retransmission rate is currently highest in New Jersey with a very high 1.51 Rt rate, New Mexico, Montana, Alaska and Vermont. While the lowest retransmission is found in Maine, Mississippi, Texas, Delaware, and New York. There’ve been a total 220,095 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.73%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 55. Virginia 24. Indiana 23. California and Illinois 22. New York 20. Georgia 19. Texas 17. And Louisiana, Michigan, Massachusetts, and Washington all with 16. Globally, there are 9,163,555 active cases.There are 261,430 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 415,159.  The five countries with the most new cases: United States 57,327. India 46,498. The UK 18,804. Russia 15,982. And Brazil 15,783. There have now been 1,117,430 deaths worldwide. Down 7% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 19th, 2020. The CDC says that while all other racial groups saw a decline in fatalities from May to August, the number of Hispanic Americans who died from the coronavirus increased. The U.S. Surgeon General says, "We do not think people of color are biologically or genetically predisposed to get COVID-19. But they have a higher incidence of diseases that put you at risk for severe complications."A top Palestinian official, chief negotiator Saeb Erekat is in "serious but stable" condition with Covid-19. Yesterday he was transferred from his home in the West Bank to an Israeli hospital near Jerusalem. The 65-year-old had a lung transplant in 2017. His brother says, "His situation is not good."New York Governor Andrew Cuomo says that state will fight the virus into the fall and winter by targeting micro-clusters block by block. Cuomo said Orange, Rockland, Queens and Brooklyn counties have micro-clusters. In fact, state officials cracked down on a planned wedding in Williamsburg that would have hosted upwards of 10,000.It’s a different story in Russia, where bars and restaurants in Moscow are packed. The outbreak in Russia this month is breaking records set in spring when a lockdown was put in place. But Russia is now resisting shutting down businesses again. Some businesses are absolutely booming during the pandemic and one of them is surfing. The country's biggest surf shops and board manufacturers all say demand is so huge, they can't keep boards in stock. Participants find it to be a cheap, socially distant activity. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Toole, MT. Bon Homme, SD. Miner, SD. Sheridan, KS. Carter, MT. Webster, NE. Foster, ND. Towner, ND. Oliver, ND. And Valley, MT. There are 2,705,385 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, and Alabama overtakes Illinois. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, and Nebraska.The retransmission rate is currently highest in New Mexico, Vermont, Ohio, Montana, and Colorado. While the lowest retransmission is found in Mississippi, Maine, Texas, Delaware, and Washington. There’ve been a total 219,669 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.74%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Missouri 61. Florida 48. California 36. Georgia 31. Texas 28. Louisiana 23. Illinois 22. Pennsylvania and Arkansas 20. And Indiana 19. Globally, there are 9,047,682 active cases.There are 339,096 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 415,159.  The five countries with the most new cases: India 55,511. The United States 44,941. France 29,837. The UK 16,982. And Russia 15,099. There have now been 1,112,558 deaths worldwide. Down 5% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 16th, 2020. An administrative member of the aviation company that charters aircraft for the Biden campaign has tested positive. And they flew with the former Vice President Monday and Tuesday. But the campaign says the two were never closer than 50 feet apart. First it was hydroxychloroquine. Now the antiviral drug Remdesivir’s positive effects are being challenged. A study coordinated by the World Health Organization says the drug had little or no effect as a treatment for Covid-19 patients. That study has not yet been peer reviewed.Cries of alarm and anger in Paris after the French government imposed a curfew on almost a third of the population. Business owners are calling it “catastrophic.” ICU wards in the city could hit 90% capacity by next week. The curfew will last at least four weeks and confine citizens to their homes from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.Canada does not want Americans crossing its border. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the United States must get control of COVID-19 first. In the past week, 13 states that border Canada have been breaking infection records. There may not be a reason to avoid going to the dentist. A survey found fewer than 1% of dentists nationwide were positive as of June. Of course, the survey was done by the American Dental Association. But it’s the first large-scale collection of U.S. dentist infection rates.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Toole, MT. Norton, KS. Roosevelt, MT. Sheridan, KS. Wheatland, MT. Oliver, ND. Faulk, SD. Buffalo, SD. Miner, SD. And Golden Valley, ND. There are 2,673,459 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Illinois, and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, and Utah.The retransmission rate is currently highest in New Mexico, Montana, Alaska, Wyoming, and Ohio. While the lowest retransmission is found in Mississippi, Delaware, Maine, Texas, and Washington. There’ve been a total 217,754 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.77%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 139. Texas 85. California 80. Illinois 53. Alabama 50. Tennessee 36. Michigan 34. Indiana 28. Massachusetts 25. And Georgia and Missouri 22. Globally, there are 8,679,327 active cases.There are 380,030 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, that is a new high.  The five countries with the most new cases: The United States 66,129. India 60,439. France 30,621. Brazil 29,498. And the UK 18,980. There have now been 1,097,228 deaths worldwide. Down 1% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 15th, 2020. First Lady Melania Trump said hers and the President’s teenage son Barron tested positive. He exhibited no symptoms and has since tested negative. The Director of the CDC is not sounding encouraging about families getting together for Thanksgiving. He told the nation’s governors small household gatherings are becoming a growing source of Covid-19 spread.France declared a public health state of emergency, giving officials greater powers to impose containment measures. A statement read, “The COVID-19 epidemic justifies the declaration so measures can be adopted proportionate to the public health risks.”Iran marked its highest single-day record for new deaths and infections; 279 people killed and 4,830 new cases. It’s the third time in a week that country has hit new highs. There are travel bans to and from five major cities, including Tehran and the holy city of Mashhad, that aims to reduce risks ahead of a religious holiday Saturday. COVID-19 continues to wreak havoc on college football. The head coach of #2 ranked Alabama, Nick Saban, was diagnosed with coronavirus. The 68-year-old is undergoing additional tests to make sure his results were not a false positive. Athletic director Greg Byrne also tested positive.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Toole, MT. Jerauld, SD. Faulk, SD. Norton, KS. Roosevelt, MT. Aurora, SD. Miner, SD. Chase, NE. Sheridan, KS. And Buffalo, SD. There are 2,649,447 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Arizona surpasses Georgia, then Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Illinois, and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, and Utah.The retransmission rate is currently highest in New Mexico, Montana, Vermont, Wyoming, and New Hampshire. While the lowest retransmission is found in Mississippi, Maine, Texas, Delaware, and Washington. There’ve been a total 216,639 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.78%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 112. California 104. Florida 64. Illinois 48. Alabama 41. North Carolina 40. Kansas 39. Tennessee 31. Minnesota 29. And Wisconsin 28. Globally, there are 8,514,969 active cases.There are 321,947 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, compared to a high of 359,265.  The five countries with the most new cases: India 67,988. United States 59,693. Brazil 26,675. France 22,591. And the UK 19,724. There have now been 1,091,123 deaths worldwide. Down 2% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 14th, 2020. A 25-year-old man in Nevada becomes the fifth known person in the world to contract the coronavirus on two separate occasions. In fact, he became more seriously ill after the second infection. He has recovered but reinfection casts doubt on the prospect of protective immunity and vaccines.Speaking of vaccines, Johnson & Johnson paused its trials due to an unexplained illness in a study participant. The online system used to enroll patients in the study has been closed. And Eli Lilly’s late-stage trial of its monoclonal antibody treatment, also paused over potential safety concerns.Is it safe to fly? Well, a study by the International Air Transport Association shows about 1 billion people have traveled by plane since the start of 2020, and just 44 cases have been confirmed among them. It did state "there is no way to establish an exact tally" of positive cases connected to air travel.Restrictions are increasing across Europe. Italy and France are restricting parties and limiting restaurants and bars. The Netherlands closed all bars and restaurants, and to discourage partying at home, banned the sale of alcohol after 8pm. The Czech Republic is closing all schools and Latvia is ordering teens to switch to distance learning. An athlete many say is the most famous in the world has tested positive. Cristiano Ronaldo has been sent away from his Portuguese football team and is self-quarantining at home. He appears to be asymptomatic. So far none of his teammates have tested positive.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Toole, MT. Jerauld, SD. Norton, KS. Aurora, SD. Faulk, SD. Roosevelt, MT. Miner, SD. Glacier, MT. Johnson, TN. And Chase, NE. There are 2,642,953 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Illinois, and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, and Idaho.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Montana, Wyoming, New Mexico, Alaska, and Vermont. While the lowest retransmission is found in Mississippi, Texas, Delaware, West Virginia, and Washington. There’ve been a total 215,861 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.79%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 121. Texas 86. California 63. North Carolina 43. Colorado 37. Wisconsin 34. Michigan 30. Illinois 29. Indiana 27. And Georgia and Arkansas 25. Globally, there are 8,416,503 active cases.There are 297,134 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, compared to a high of 359,265.  The five countries with the most new cases: India 63,517. United States 51,534. The UK 17,234. Russia 13,868. And Argentina 13,305. There have now been 1,085,015 deaths worldwide. Down 1% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 13th, 2020. While the world waits for a coronavirus vaccine, Americans are increasingly saying don’t bother. A Gallup poll shows willingness to get such a vaccination has dropped 11 points, falling to only 50%. But at the same time, the percentage of Americans inclined to not go back to normal daily activities until there is a vaccine hit a new high of 26%.The head of the World Health Organization called a reliance on herd immunity “simply unethical." It was noted that to get herd immunity, about 95% of the population must be immunized and that simply exposing people to the virus is not how you get to herd immunity.The Vatican said four Swiss Guards tested positive and have symptoms. Infections have been surging in surrounding Italy. The Swiss Guards provide ceremonial guard duty during papal Masses, man the Vatican gates and help protect 83-year-old Pope Francis.Countries across Europe are tightening restrictions as cases increase. Europe surpassed 100,000 daily cases for the first time last week. The Czech Republic has Europe’s highest rate of infection. In July, that country held a “Farewell Covid” party to celebrate their victory over the virus.JFK and Newark airports have partnered with XpresCheck to offer rapid testing facilities that provide results in 15 minutes. It’s the sister company of XpresSpa, which offers mani-pedis and massages at airports.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Jerauld, SD. Aurora, SD. Faulk, SD. Roosevelt, MT. Norton, KS. Toole, MT. Falls, TX. Miner, SD. Glacier, MT. And Johnson, TN. There are 2,633,163 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Illinois, and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, and Utah.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Montana, New Mexico, Alaska, Wyoming, and New Hampshire. While the lowest retransmission is found in Mississippi, West Virginia, Washington, Delaware, and Texas. There’ve been a total 214,061 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.80%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 48. Pennsylvania 18. Arkansas 17. Texas 15. Louisiana and Iowa 14. Massachusetts, Illinois, and Georgia 13. And New York 12.Globally, there are 8,353,163 active cases.There are 281,219 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, compared to a high of 359,265.  The five countries with the most new cases: India 54,265. United States 45,791. The UK 13,972. Russia 13,592. And Argentina 9,524. There have now been 1,078,629 deaths worldwide. Up 7% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 12th, 2020. Australian scientists say the virus that causes Covid-19 can survive up to 28 days on surfaces. That includes phones, stainless steel, vinyl, and cash. The national science agency said they also found the virus survived longer at lower temperatures.New York authorities have handed out over $150,000 in penalties since Friday in its new hot zones. That includes five fines for the maximum allowable penalty specifically for Orthodox religious gatherings. The crackdowns have mostly been in Brooklyn and Queens.The World Health Organization is now appealing to world leaders to stop using lockdowns as the primary control method for the coronavirus. The statement claims the only thing lockdowns achieved was poverty.A tipping point. That’s where the UK’s deputy chief medical officer says the kingdom is with COVID-19. Jonathan Van-Tam said the worst is yet to come if “we do not all act now”. The worry is winter. He says, “We’re in the middle of a severe pandemic and the seasons are against us. Basically, we’re running into a headwind.”And Iran announced its highest single-day death toll with 251 confirmed dead. Two senior officials have been infected. The total confirmed death toll now stands at 28,544, making Iran the hardest-hit country in the region. Nearly 4,500 patients are in critical condition.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Jerauld, SD. Aurora, SD. Faulk, SD. Roosevelt, MT. Norton, KS. Falls, TX. Golden Valley, ND. Johnson, TN. Chase, NE. And Miner, SD. There are 2,644,141 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Illinois, and Alabama. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wisconsin, and Utah.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Montana, New Mexico, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Alaska. While the lowest retransmission is found in Mississippi, South Carolina, West Virginia, Delaware, and Washington. There’ve been a total 214,767 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.81%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 90. Texas 28. Georgia 23. Louisiana 20. Massachusetts and Arkansas 17. Minnesota 10. And California, Illinois and Tennessee with 9. Globally, there are 8,312,364 active cases.There are 332,766 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, compared to a high of 359,265.  The five countries with the most new cases: India 67,757. United States 41,935. France 16,101. Russia 13,634. And the UK 12,872. There have now been 1,075,750 deaths worldwide. Up 5% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 9th, 2020.Researchers have used CRISPR gene-editing technology to create a test that detects the coronavirus in just 5 minutes. No expensive lab equipment needed, and tests could be run at doctor’s offices, schools, or office buildings. The tests work by identifying a sequence of RNA unique to the novel coronavirus.MP’s have been warned the number of ICU patients in the north of England will overtake the April peak if infections keep rising at the current rate. New restrictions are expected next week for millions, restrictions that especially target bars, pubs, and restaurants.In France, Paris hospitals have been told to activate emergency measures to cope with its rising numbers of patients. COVID patients in the Paris region now fill about 40% of intensive care units. Stricter restrictions were also put in place in four big cities were the virus is spreading.And in Canada, public health officials are asking residents to stay home as much as they can. Last month, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declared a second wave was already underway. There’s been a 40% rise in the last week alone.COVID-19 is most often brutal to the respiratory system. So there’s some irony in a report from Altria, formerly Philip-Morris, that the pandemic has caused a reversal of longtime declines in smoking. Cigarette sales are unexpectedly high.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Jerauld, SD. Aurora, SD. Falls, TX. Nelson, ND. Faulk, SD. Dickey, ND. Johnson, TN. Glacier, MT. Emmons, ND. Scurry, TX.There are 2,590,832 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Illinois, and Alabama.The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Montana, and Utah.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Montana, Vermont, Wyoming, Kentucky, and New Hampshire. While the lowest retransmission is found in Mississippi, Virginia, California, South Carolina, and West Virginia.There’ve been a total 212,716 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.85%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 158. Texas 103. California 69. Tennessee 63. Alabama 36. Georgia 35. Illinois 32. North Carolina and Missouri 29. And Kansas 26.Globally, there are 8,014,414 active cases.There are 351,219 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours. That is a new all-time high. The five countries with the most new cases: India 70,824. United States 56,652. Brazil 27,182. France 18,129. And the UK 17,540.There have now been 1,060,869 deaths worldwide. Up 14% over 14 days. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 8th, 2020.An internal FEMA memo indicates the outbreak has infected 34 White House staffers and other contacts in recent days. And, according to the House Administration Committee, there are now 123 Legislative Branch employees or contractors who have tested positive — or are presumed positive.Wisconsin health officials announced a field hospital will open next week at the state fairgrounds near Milwaukee to handle a surge in cases that threatens to overwhelm hospitals. Wisconsin has become a hot spot over the last month.The federal government is cracking down on hospitals that don’t report complete COVID-19 data. That information includes the number of patients and ventilators they have. After multiple notifications, hospitals could lose reimbursement from Medicare and Medicaid.Case numbers are high in the UK, but scientists say more than 80% of people who tested positive in a survey didn’t show any of the main symptoms. That includes cough, fever, and loss of taste and smell. That suggests future outbreaks will be hard to control without broader testing to catch “silent transmission.”The games have been happening, now the crowds might get back into NFL games. The Miami Dolphins have been given permission from Florida’s governor to allow full capacity at Hard Rock Stadium. 65,000 seats. However, the team will likely restrict the number itself.  The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Falls, TX. Nelson, ND. Dickey, ND. Emmons, ND. Glacier, MT. Eddy, ND. Golden Valley, ND. Menominee, WI. Rawlins, KS. Toole, MT.There are 2,576,060 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois.The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Utah, and Montana.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Wyoming, Vermont, Montana, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. While the lowest retransmission is found in South Carolina, Mississippi, Virginia, Texas, and West Virginia.There’ve been a total 211,753 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.85%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 123. Texas 119. California 97. Illinois 42. Georgia 30. South Carolina 29. Pennsylvania 28. New York and Missouri 26. And Mississippi 24.Globally, there are 7,922,085 active cases.There are 328,393 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, compared to a high of 332,905.The five countries with the most new cases: India 78,809. United States 48,715. Brazil 31,404. France 18,746. Argentina 16,477.There have now been 1,054,609 deaths worldwide. Up 16% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 7th, 2020.CNN reports the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, as well as several senior Pentagon leaders are quarantining. A top Coast Guard official tested positive and had been in contact with those now quarantined. The Pentagon is conducting additional contact tracing.The FDA made it clear it must see two months of follow-up data after volunteers get their second dose of vaccines in clinical trials before it will grant even emergency use approval. This makes it fairly clear, no vaccine until at least early December.New restrictions for a state that’s been struggling with a surge in the virus. Wisconsin’s Governor limited the size of public indoor gatherings. The state has become one of the worst hot spots over the last month. Some experts say it’s because of colleges and schools reopening and people getting tired of wearing masks and social distancing.Remdesivir, a drug that has become key in treating COVID, has a problem. There’s not enough of it. Shortages have led to rationing in the UK with mounting on the manufacturer, Gilead, to let other companies supply it. Remdesivir is under patent.Here’s a story that will not shock you. A new study shows that American adults are drinking more since the pandemic started. Consumption is up 14% compared to a year ago. But the drinking is especially pronounced with women. Their consumption is up 17% and there was a 41% increase in heavy drinking for women.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Emmons, ND. Dickey, ND. Nelson, ND. Golden Valley, ND. Potter, TX. Sussex, VA. Logan, ND. Menominee, WI. Shawano, WI. And Glacier, MT.There are 2,571,379 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois.The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Montana, and Utah.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Vermont, Wyoming, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and New Mexico. While the lowest retransmission is found in South Carolina, West Virginia, Mississippi, Virginia, and Texas.There’ve been a total 210,812 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.85%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 100. California 84. Florida 69. Missouri 42. Georgia 37. North Carolina 33. Illinois 31. Indiana 30. Tennessee 24. And Michigan and Arkansas 22.Globally, there are 7,839,669 active cases.There are 297,533 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, compared to a high of 332,905.The five countries with the most new cases: India 72,106. United States 43,660. Brazil 30,454. Argentina 14,740. UK 14,542.There have now been 1,047,731 deaths worldwide. Up 16% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 6th, 2020.The CDC revised its guidance yesterday, acknowledging the virus can sometimes spread through airborne particles that can “linger in the air for minutes to hours” and among people who are more than 6 feet apart.With the President returning to the White House, Chad Gilmartin, principal assistant press secretary, tested positive this weekend, according to CBS News. He is one of Press Secretary Kaleigh McEnany's main deputies and she too, reported testing positive.The head of emergencies at the World Health Organization said their “best estimates” indicate about 10% of people worldwide may have been infected. That’s more than 20 times the number of confirmed cases.The back and forth continues in New York City. Sunday, Mayor Bill de Blasio decided to roll back business openings in certain zip codes. Yesterday, Governor Andrew Cuomo said, no. And his approval is required to cancel the openings.The Regal theater chain is shutting down all 536 of their locations Thursday. That’s more than 7,000 movie screens going dark. The chain said the closure reflects "an increasingly challenging theatrical landscape." About 40,000 employees in the U.S. are facing a furlough.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Toole, MT. Rawlins, KS. Dickey, ND. Golden Valley, ND. Emmons, ND. Glacier, MT. Potter, TX. Nelson, ND. Sussex, VA. Logan, ND.There are 2,569,534 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois.The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Montana, and Utah.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Wyoming, Montana, New Hampshire, New Mexico, and Massachusetts. While the lowest retransmission is found in South Carolina, West Virginia, Texas, Virginia, and Georgia.There’ve been a total 210,155 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.86%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 59. Florida 44. California 31. Georgia 30. Arkansas 22. Tennessee and Massachusetts 20. New York 18. Washington 16. Michigan 15.Globally, there are 7,784,083 active cases.There are 259,326 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, compared to a high of 332,905.The five countries with the most new cases: India 59,893. United States 41,576. Brazil 25,210. UK 12,594. And Argentina 11,242.There have now been 1,042,679 deaths worldwide. Up 7% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 5th, 2020.Florida has gone the furthest in lifting restrictions, especially on restaurants. The role of ensuring safety has shifted to business owners and customers. Restaurants can operate at 100% with no restrictions and local governments can't limit indoor seating by more than 50%.Quite the opposite in New York City. Mayor Bill de Blasio has asked the state for permission to close schools and put restrictions back on nonessential businesses in several neighborhoods. New shutdowns would happen starting Wednesday in nine city ZIP codes.A limited number of people made the Muslim pilgrimage and circled Mecca after Saudi Arabia lifted coronavirus restrictions in place for months. A maximum 6,000 pilgrims a day can enter the Grand Mosque, but only Saudi citizens and residents.As the President is expected to return to the White House today after his stay at Walter Reed, COVID-19 testing is underway at the University of Utah before the vice-presidential debate Wednesday. Anyone in the secured perimeter must test negative. It’s mandated by the Presidential Debate Commission, advised by the Cleveland Clinic.Japanese designer Kenzo Takada, famous for creating the international luxury fashion house Kenzo, died in Paris yesterday of Covid-19 related complications. He was 81.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Emmons, ND. Dickey, ND. Rawlins, KS. Logan, ND. Glacier, MT. Potter, TX. Shawano, WI. Toole, MT. Sussex, VA. Ness, KS.There are 2,573,263 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois.The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Montana, and Iowa.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Wyoming, Montana, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and New Mexico. While the lowest retransmission is found in South Carolina, West Virginia, Virginia, Texas, and Georgia.There’ve been a total 209,820 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.87%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 38. Louisiana 32. Georgia 28. California 26. Texas 25. Arkansas 18. Illinois, Tennessee and Pennsylvania all with 17. And South Carolina 11.Globally, there are 7,732,128 active cases.There are 308,935 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, compared to a high of 332,905.The five countries with the most new cases: India 74,767. United States 34,066. France 12,565. Russia 10,499. And Brazil 8,456.There have now been 1,035,853 deaths worldwide. Up 5% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 2nd, 2020.President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have both tested positive for the coronavirus and have begun a quarantine. Speculation is they may have contracted it from aide Hope Hicks, who tested positive with symptoms and who traveled with the President on Air Force One and Marine One.At home spit tests are not panning out yet as hoped. Two companies working on them have abandoned their efforts. It was hoped that spit tests that produce results in minutes would exponentially expand the number of people getting tested and pave a path back to normalcy.Moscow’s mayor ordered companies to send 30% of their workers home — as well as anyone over 65 or who has an underlying condition. The number of cases in the capital doubled over the past week.Amazon reports almost 20,000 of its front-line U.S. workers have tested positive or been presumed positive. Still, that’s below the infection rate seen in the general U.S. population. Amazon was under pressure from workers and labor groups to divulge its COVID-19 numbers.You might not get a fever, you might not have a cough, but new research shows one symptom is consistently a prominent indicator you have the virus. It’s loss of smell and taste. The researchers based in the U.K. say that should be a trigger to self-isolate regardless of other symptoms.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Roosevelt, MT. Emmons, ND. Logan, ND. Campbell, SD. Glacier, MT. Lyman, SD. Potter, TX. Joplin, MO. Nelson, ND. And Beckham, OK.There are 2,545,390 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois.The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Utah, and Iowa.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Wyoming, Massachusetts, Montana, Indiana, and New Mexico. While the lowest retransmission is found in South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, California, and Virginia.There’ve been a total 207,791 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.90%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 129. Texas 119. California 89. North Carolina and Tennessee 47. Georgia 42. Missouri 26. And Illinois, Arizona and Massachusetts all with 24.Globally, there are 7,782,161 active cases.There are 316,089 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, compared to a high of 332,905.The five countries with the most new cases: India 81,693. United States 47,389. Brazil 35,643. Argentina 14,001. And France 13,970.There have now been 1,020,932 deaths worldwide. Flat over 14 days. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for October 1st, 2020.Why does coronavirus hit some people so hard and others not? An international team of researchers is settling on one reason; in severe cases the body attacks one of its own immune defenses instead of attacking the virus. This happens mostly in men, which helps explain why they are often affected worse.New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio says wear the mask or get fined. This after the city saw a positivity rate of over 3% for the first time since June. Going maskless could cost someone up to $1,000.British lawmakers renewed the government’s sweeping powers to impose emergency restrictions. Britain's death toll has passed 42,000 — the highest in Europe — and the country’s seeing a second spike in new cases. The powers must be renewed every six months.With infections surging in the Midwest, some hospitals in Wisconsin and North Dakota are running out of room. A record number were hospitalized in Wisconsin. And in North Dakota, hospitals are adding extra space as employees express worry about capacity.Fans will be allowed at the NL Championship Series and World Series in Arlington, Texas. About 28% of capacity will be sold. Sold seats will be spaced out, no seats will be sold in the first six rows, and masks are mandatory.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Emmons, ND takes the #1 spot. Then Roosevelt, MT. Logan, ND. Lyman, SD. Renville, ND. Tripp, SD. Potter, TX. Rawlins, KS. Beckham, OK. And Nelson, ND.There are 2,535,836 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois.The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Utah, and Iowa.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Wyoming, Massachusetts, Montana, Indiana, and New Mexico. While the lowest retransmission is found in South Carolina, California, Kentucky, Virginia, and Georgia.There’ve been a total 206,888 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.90%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 173. Texas 109. California 108. North Carolina 38. Illinois 35. Tennessee 34. Massachusetts 33. Georgia and Wisconsin 27. And Kansas 24.Globally, there are 7,709,496 active cases.There are 299,444 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, compared to a high of 332,905.The five countries with the most new cases: India 86,748. United States 40,929. Brazil 33,269. Argentina 14,392. And France 12,845.There have now been 1,012,841 deaths worldwide. Down 1% over 14 days. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 30th, 2020.South Korea, often hailed as having done one of the best jobs of containing the virus, has reported 113 new cases. That’s its first daily increase over 100 in 5 days as that country enters a holiday break officials fear might worsen transmissions.San Francisco’s Mayor said that city will lift more coronavirus restrictions on businesses starting today. The city was given permission to do so by the governor’s four-tiered reopening plan. Restaurants, bars that serve meals and places of worship can reopen for indoor operations at 25% capacity up to 100 people with health precautions.New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo warned clusters of cases are popping up around New York City, especially in ZIP codes that “overlap” with large Orthodox Jewish communities. The percentage of tests coming back positive in some ZIP codes has gone over 10%. New York has been reporting a 1% infection rate for weeks.Contact-tracing efforts have politicians and health officials pleading with the public, answer your phone, even if you don’t know who it is. It’s a challenge. Americans got 58.5 billion automated calls in 2019.The Tennessee Titans have closed their facilities until Saturday after three players and five team personnel tested positive. Those who tested positive have been asymptomatic but no official decision has been made about the Titans' game Sunday against the Steelers in Nashville.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Roosevelt, MT is the new #1. Then Concho, TX. Logan, ND. Emmons, ND. Lyman, SD. Renville, ND. Tripp, SD. Rawlins, KS. Beckham, OK. Southampton, VA.There are 2,546,678 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: California, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and Illinois.The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Utah, and Iowa.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Wyoming, Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Montana, and New Mexico. While the lowest retransmission is found in South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, Arizona, and Ohio.There’ve been a total 205,974 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.91%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 151. Florida 101. Texas 100. North Carolina 49. Mississippi 36. Missouri 35. Georgia 33. Ohio 32. Tennessee 31. And Illinois 23.Globally, there are 7,684,005 active cases.There are 254,466 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 332,905 on September 25th.The five countries with the most new cases: India 80,500. United States 44,227. Brazil 31,990. Argentina 13,477. And Spain 9,906.There have now been 1,006,493 deaths worldwide. Up 3% over 14 days. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 29th, 2020.It was announced the U.S. government will start distributing millions of rapid coronavirus tests to states this week. The idea is for governors to use them to reopen schools for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Tests will go to states based on population and can be used however governors see fit.India’s confirmed coronavirus tally reached 6 million on Monday. New infections in India are currently being reported faster than anywhere else in the world. The world’s second-most populous country is expected to become the worst-hit country in coming weeks, surpassing the U.S.Spain’s health minister pleaded for the third time in four days for tougher restrictions in Madrid. Regional officials are pushing back. The health minister says data shows Madrid “has community transmission and the pandemic is not under control.”Organizations including the World Health Organization and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation announced agreements to make sure affordable, quality rapid tests are made available to low and middle-income countries. The tests being discussed provide results in 15–30 minutes.There were worries when Florida pushed to open in person schooling in August. But a USA Today analysis shows the case count there between ages 5 and 17 actually went down from then through late September.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Woodward, OK. Anderson, TX. Roosevelt, MT. Edwards, TX. Emmons, ND. Logan, ND. Concho, TX. Frio, TX. Lavaca, TX. And Lyman, SD.There are 2,542,167 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: Florida, California, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Alabama, Texas, and Illinois.The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Utah, and Iowa.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Wyoming, Massachusetts, Montana, North Carolina, and Idaho. While the lowest retransmission is found in Georgia, South Carolina, Ohio, Arizona, and Maine.There’ve been a total 205,031 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.92%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 62. California 34. Arkansas 21. Georgia and Louisiana 15. New York and Missouri 14. Illinois and Virginia 13. And Tennessee with 12.Globally, there are 7,665,264 active cases.There are 248,590 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 332,905 on September 25th.The five countries with the most new cases: India 69,671. United States 37,418. Brazil 16,018. Argentina 11,807. And Russia 8,135.There have now been over 1 million deaths worldwide. Down 9% over 14 days. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 28th, 2020. More than 1,000 New Yorkers tested positive for COVID-19 in a single day. That’s the first time since June 5 the state has seen a daily number that high. An aide to Governor Andrew Cuomo stressed the new positive-case number came out of nearly 100,000 tests, compared to about 60,000 tests a day in June.A COVID-19 vaccine was approved for emergency use in China. And it’s been given to hundreds of thousands before final regulatory approval for general use. Chinese companies gave the vaccine to top executives and leading researchers first, then injected a far greater number that appears ready to rise.When the pandemic first started, most experts were worried Africa would be hit especially hard. Nine months in, most African countries have actually done significantly better than other parts of the world. The reason, at least right now, is a mystery. France’s health minister said hospitals in Paris and Marseille are putting off elective surgeries to make room for COVID patients. Health authorities reported 14,000 new infections Saturday. France has reported the third-highest death toll in Europe after Britain and Italy.The former superintendent and medical director of the Soldiers' Home in Holyoke, Massachusetts have been indicted on criminal neglect charges. They allegedly combined 42 veterans – some positive, some not – into one unit. Six or seven veterans were put into rooms meant for four. And beds were put close together in a dining room. Patients were also allowed to mingle. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Woodward, OK. Anderson, TX. Roosevelt, MT. Edwards, TX. Logan, ND. Concho, TX. Frio, TX. Lavaca, TX. Waseca, MN. And Emmons, ND. There are 2,551,434 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: Florida, California, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Alabama, Texas, and Illinois. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Utah, and Oklahoma.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Wyoming, North Carolina, Massachusetts, Montana, and Idaho. While the lowest retransmission is found in Georgia, Virginia, South Carolina, Hawaii, and Ohio.There’ve been a total 204,750 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.93%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 35. Georgia 32. Arkansas 23. California and Louisiana 21. Virginia 15. Illinois and Massachusetts 13. Ohio 11. And Florida and Maryland 10. Globally, there are 7,666,639 active cases.There are 275,185 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 312,135 on September 11th. The five countries with the most new cases: India 82,767. United States 33,782. Brazil 14,194. France 11,123. And Argentina 8,841.There have been 995,610 deaths worldwide. Down 10% over 14 days. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 25th, 2020. EU officials urged member nations to move quickly to slow the latest wave of infections and try to avoid a repeat of broad lockdowns. The EU health commissioner said some countries are reporting more cases now than they did during the earlier pandemic's peak in Europe.If you’d like to go to China, foreigners holding certain kinds of visas and permits will be allowed to do that starting next week. The new regulation lifts a monthslong blanket suspension covering most foreigners other than diplomats and those in special circumstances.Health inspectors found safety shortcomings at 77 New York nursing homes during the pandemic, including basic infection-control violations like not having staff wear masks or wash their hands. About six homes were cited for failing to isolate infected patients from other residents.The virus is hurting colleges in more ways than health issues. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center says undergrad enrollment has dropped 2.5% from last fall. The decline was especially sharp for community colleges, down 7.5% In St. Charles, Missouri it’s the movie “Footloose” made reality. The city is banning dancing after 11pm. Restaurant, bar and club operators have been informed of a temporary ban on “music activities.”The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Woodward, OK. Concho, TX. Emmons, ND. Anderson, TX. Edwards, TX. Cheyenne, KS. Frio, TX. Pawnee, KS. Southampton, VA. And Lavaca, TX. There are 2,540,358 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: Florida, California, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and South Carolina. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.The retransmission rate is currently highest in Washington, Wyoming, (a big spike in those two states with numbers around 1.34) Colorado, Missouri, and Rhode Island. While the lowest retransmission is found in Ohio, Hawaii, South Carolina, California, and Mississippi.There’ve been a total 202,762 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.95%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 172. Texas 138. California 89. Georgia 49. North Carolina 40. Tennessee 35. Arizona 34. Illinois 30. Missouri 29. And Ohio 27. Globally, there are 7,498,101 active cases.There are 303,064 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 312,135 on September 11th. The five countries with the most new cases: India 85,919. United States 45,355. Brazil 32,129. France 16,096. Argentina 13,467.There have been 979,902 deaths worldwide. Down 13% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 24th, 2020. Missouri Gov. Mike Parson has tested positive for the coronavirus, as has his wife, Teresa. Parson is awaiting a second test to confirm the results but says, "Right now, I feel fine, no symptoms of any kind.” The couple will likely be quarantined a few days.Johnson & Johnson says their vaccine candidate is in Phase 3, which is the final stage of clinical trials in the U.S. It’s the fourth vaccine candidate to reach this final stage. Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca are also there, though AstraZeneca paused after a U.K. participant developed a spinal cord injury.New research from universities including Harvard and Rutgers suggest Americans under 25 are most likely to believe virus-related misinformation. Younger people had an 18% probability of believing a false claim, compared with 9% for those over 65.Finland has deployed coronavirus-sniffing dogs at its main international airport. It’s a four-month test to see if this could be a faster, more cost-efficient way to identify infected travelers. Four dogs of different breeds were trained by Finland’s Smell Detection Association.In New York City, the Metropolitan Opera announced the cancellation of its entire 2020-21 season. That will stop the music until next September. The organization has lost more than $150 million in revenue and has about 1,000 full-time employees furloughed without pay.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Woodward, OK. Concho, TX. Emmons, ND. Anderson, TX. Edwards, TX. Cheyenne, KS. Frio, TX. Rosebud, MT. Southampton, VA. And Lavaca, TX. There are 2,534,053 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: Florida, California, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and South Carolina. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.The retransmission rate is currently fastest in Wyoming, Rhode Island, Oregon, Colorado, and Texas. While the lowest retransmission is found in California, Hawaii, Ohio, Mississippi, and South Carolina.There’ve been a total 201,930 deaths in the U.S. reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.95%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 202. Texas 130. California 118. Georgia 96. Missouri 58. Ohio 48. Pennsylvania 39. Alabama 31. North Carolina 30. And Virginia 29. Globally, there are 7,434,248 active cases.There are 268,872 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 312,135 on September 11th. The five countries with the most new cases: India 89,688. United States 41,616. Brazil 32,445. France 13,072. Argentina 12,625.There have been 973,500 deaths worldwide. Down 14% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 23rd, 2020. As the death count in the United States surpasses the 200,000 mark, an Axios/Ipsos poll shows 60% of Americans say they will not take a vaccine when one becomes available. That figure is up from 53% in August. Most said they’d wait a few months or never get one at all.For whatever reason, younger women appear to be bearing the brunt of the UK’s second wave based on hospital admissions. That metric shows a substantial rise in women 20 to 40 admitted for serious infections since the beginning of August.In Greece, judicial authorities were instructed to prosecute anti-mask activists, and engage fast-tracked trials and penalties with convictions of up to a year in prison. The infection rate there actually remains lower than most other EU member nations. In America, the Veterans’ Administration has gone from seeing a steady decline in new cases over 9 weeks to a 7% spike across its health system. Active cases are still less than half of what they were July 20. But there were 189 new cases over the weekend.Tommy DeVito, one of the original members of The Four Seasons, has died from coronavirus. He was at a Las Vegas area hospital, where he was admitted after contracting COVID-19.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Woodward, OK moves to #1. Then Emmons, ND. New on the list, Anderson, TX. Rosebud, MT. Also new are Edwards, TX, Cheyenne, KS, Frio, TX, and Lavaca, TX. Pawnee, KS is back in the top 10. Then Lincoln, AR.  There are 2,546,356 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: Florida, California, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and South Carolina. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.  The retransmission rate is currently fastest in Wisconsin, Wyoming, New Hampshire, Utah, and Rhode Island. While the lowest retransmission is found in Mississippi, Hawaii, California, South Carolina, and Ohio.There’ve been a total 200,724 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.95%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 124. Texas 107. Florida 97. Georgia 73. Missouri 49. North Carolina and Virginia 39. Mississippi 36. South Carolina 31. And Illinois 29. Globally, there are 7,405,932 active cases.There are 252,120 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 312,135 on September 11th. The five countries with the most new cases: India 80,391. United States 35,696. Brazil 35,252. Argentina 12,027. Spain 10,799.  There have been 966,988 deaths worldwide. Down 15% over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 22nd, 2020. 64 higher income economies joined a global initiative that brings together governments and manufacturers to make sure vaccines reach those in greatest need, no matter where they live. The idea is to insure against the failure of any one vaccine candidate and distribute vaccines in a cost-effective, targeted way. The CDC stirred confusion by posting — then taking down — a change to its position on how easily coronavirus can spread through the air. A post last week on their website said the virus can hang in the air and spread further than 6 feet. Now they say the post was an error.British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will impose new restrictions on nightlife, including having pubs and restaurants close early. They’ll be able to offer table service only and close at 10pm. There’s been an increase in TSA officers who’ve tested positive since Labor Day weekend. The TSA has 229 employees with active infections. Over the past two weeks, TSA officers at 31 U.S. airports have tested positive. Eleven of those airports are in the Midwest.In India, the Taj Mahal is once again open after more than a 6-month closure. Visitors are capped at 5,000 a day. Tickets are digital, and everyone must wear a mask and get their temperature taken. Tourism accounted for 6.8% of India's economy in 2019. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Craig, OK. New on the list, Woodward, OK. Emmons, ND. Rosebud, MT. Lincoln, AR. Tripp, SD. Concho, TX. Gregory SD. New on the list Renville, ND and Hughes, SD.  There are 2,542,185 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: Florida, California, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and South Carolina. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, Wisconsin, Arkansas, South Dakota, and Iowa.  The retransmission rate is currently fastest in Wyoming, Wisconsin, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Utah. While the lowest retransmission is found in Hawaii, Texas, Mississippi, Ohio, and California. There’ve been a total 199,815 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.97%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 53. Texas 48. Missouri 26. Florida 21. Pennsylvania 20. Washington 18. Arkansas 16. Tennessee 15. South Carolina 13. And Michigan 12. Globally, there are 7,401,635 active cases.There are 253,013 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 312,135 on September 11th. The five countries with the most new cases: India 74,493. United States 36,372. Brazil 15,454. Argentina 8,872. Russia 6,196.  There have been 961,858 deaths worldwide. Flat over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 21st, 2020. More than a month ago, Russia became the first country to approve a vaccine. But health officials and outside experts say that country has yet to administer it to a large population outside a clinical trial. Approval occurred before Russia tested the vaccine in late-stage trials. The number of states regarded as “at a tipping point” for infections has jumped from one to six in the past week. The Harvard Global Health Institute and Brown School of Public Health show that North Dakota, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma should be under stay-at-home orders.Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has been saying school districts should hold at least half of classes in-person. In Des Moines, they’re saying no. The school board voted again last week to violate Reynolds’ order.Representative Jahana Hayes, a Democrat from Connecticut, is the latest Congressperson to test positive. She’ll quarantine 14 days. More than a dozen representatives and two senators have tested positive for the virus over the course of the pandemic. Parts of Madrid, not happy about the return of lockdowns. Residents, mostly in the working-class suburbs, took to the streets in protest. The latest lockdown will affect about 850,000 residents. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Emmons, ND jumps to number one. Craig, OK. Rosebud, MT. Lincoln, AR. East Feliciana, LA. All new on the list, Concho, TX; Tripp, SD; Gregory SD; and Benson, ND. Stewart, GA rounds out the top 10.There are 2,550,510 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: Florida, California, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and South Carolina. The five states with the most daily new cases per capita over 7 days are North Dakota, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Arkansas and Missouri. The retransmission rate is currently fastest in New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, Utah and Wyoming. While the lowest retransmission is found in Hawaii, Texas, Mississippi, Louisiana, and California. There’ve been a total 199,474 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related, with a current national fatality rate of 2.98%.The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 34. California 31. Louisiana 26. Virginia 25. Pennsylvania 21. Missouri 17. Massachusetts 15. Illinois and Ohio 14. And Florida and South Carolina with 11. Globally, there are 7,442,102 active cases.There are 299,345 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 312,135 on September 11th. The five countries with the most new cases: India 87,382. United States 33,344. Brazil 16,282. France 10,569. Argentina 8,431. There have been 958,637 deaths worldwide. Flat over 14 days.  For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 18th, 2020. The World Health Organization’s European director warned governments against reducing the quarantine period for people potentially exposed. WHO Europe's 53-country region recorded more than 300,000 cases in the last week, and more than half of countries reported a rise of more than 10% over the last 2 weeks.The UK’s Health Minister meanwhile, denied Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the government was considering a 2-week national lockdown. He said there was “speculation in the press” a lockdown would be needed to contain a rapid rise in infections.India is on track to overtake the United States to become the worst-affected country. 98,000 new cases confirmed yesterday and total caseload surpassing 5 million. And it’s spreading fast there. The country confirmed 1 million new infections in the past 11 days.New York City wanted to be among the first to get students back into classrooms, but Mayor Bill de Blasio announced he’s delaying in-person instruction for most students due to a shortage of staff and supplies. Middle and high school students will learn remotely through at least Oct. 1.Wynn Resorts tests groups of up to 700 employees every 2 weeks. They’ve done 15,051 tests so far and of those, there have been 548 positive cases. 51 of those were recorded before reopening and 497 were after reopening. Wynn Las Vegas has hosted more than 500,000 guests since reopening in early June. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Wheeler, GA. Craig, OK. Rosebud, MT. Chattahoochee, GA. East Feliciana, LA. New on the list, Emmons, ND. Bollinger, MO. New on the list, Stewart, GA. Hardeman TN. And Union, FL. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Israel, Bahrain, Andorra, Montenegro, Argentina, Costa Rica, Spain, Peru, and Kuwait. There are 2,517,344 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: Florida, California, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and South Carolina. There’ve been a total 197,633 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related.Globally there have been 943,066 deaths. Down 1% over 14 days. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 142. Texas 98. California 91. Georgia 55. Arizona 38. Virginia 36. North Carolina 31. South Carolina and Missouri 26. And Illinois and Ohio with 25. Globally, there are 7,360,220 active cases with 1% in serious or critical condition.There are 305,952 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 312,135 on September 11th. The 5 Countries with the most new cases: India 96,793. United States 39,216. Brazil 35,757. Argentina 12,701. And Spain 11,291.In the United States, there are 39,216 new cases in the last 24 hours against a high of 75,682 July 15th. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 17th, 2020. Connecticut officials took what they called the “extraordinary step” of closing a nursing home and moving residents out after an outbreak resulting in around 30 cases and four deaths. This right after the state made the rare move of installing an outside manager at the home in Norwich to address deficiencies.NYC opened a testing lab in Manhattan after months of complaints about testing delays. The aim is to cut down on wait times and not depend on backlogged big lab companies. The facility will prioritize New York City residents, with turnaround times in 24-48 hours.The federal government released broad plans aimed at distributing free vaccines within a day after an emergency use authorization or full approval is granted. A "playbook" developed by the CDC instructs state health agencies to create planning committees and prepare for a limited supply of vaccine doses in the fall.The CDC is also reporting most children under 21 dying from COVID-19 are Hispanic, Black or Native American. Of those who died, 78% were children of color: 45% were Hispanic, 29% were Black and 4% were non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Native.ICU wards in Spain are busy again. Madrid is for the second time the capital worst hit by outbreaks on the continent. And doctors and nurses say authorities are, again, responding too erratically and too late. One doctor called it March but in slow motion.Ireland’s entire Cabinet is self-isolating and parliament has been suspended after the health minister reported feeling unwell. Stephen Donnelly has contacted his doctor for a test, but he did take part in a cabinet meeting and press conference beforehand.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Wheeler, GA. Craig, OK. Chattahoochee, GA. East Feliciana, LA. Rosebud, MT. Bollinger, MO. Union, FL. Hardeman TN. New on the list Stark, ND. And Edmunds, SD. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Bahrain, Israel, Andorra, Montenegro, Argentina, Costa Rica, Spain, Peru, and Kuwait. Turks and Caicos Islands drops out of the top 10. There are 2,507,795 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: Florida, California, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and South Carolina. There’ve been a total 196,732 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related.Globally there have been 938,179 deaths. Flat over 14 days.  The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 156. Arkansas 147. Texas 144. California 106. Ohio 50. Virginia 45. North Carolina 38. Illinois 35. South Carolina 34. And Arizona 27. Globally, there are 7,287,870 active cases with 1% in serious or critical condition.There are 283,671 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 312,135 on September 11th. The 5 Countries with the most new cases: India 97,859. United States 40,154. Brazil 37,387. Argentina 11,674. And Spain 11,193.In the United States, there are 39,221 new cases in the last 24 hours against a high of 75,682 on July 15th. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 16th, 2020. New York has dropped six states from its coronavirus travel advisory. Travelers from California, Hawaii, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, and Ohio will no longer have to quarantine two weeks before entering the tri-state area.Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh isolated a biomolecule they say neutralizes the virus that causes COVID-19 "completely and specifically." In a published report, they say this antibody component is used for a drug, Ab8, that could be both a preventative and therapeutic treatment.Hospitals in England say a shortage of tests in the U.K. is jeopardizing medical staffing and the ability to handle a potential surge in cases this winter. Daily new infections have gone to levels not seen since late May.Dr. Anthony Fauci praised Vermont as a model and proof the principles he’s been touting can lead to a safer reopening. Vermont has the lowest per capita rate of cases of any state, and one of the lowest death rates. Only two Covid-19 patients are currently hospitalized.LSU football coach Ed Orgeron said most of his team has contracted COVID-19. He said he didn’t know the exact percentage. Per SEC protocols, players who have contracted COVID-19 don't have to be tested again for 90 days.And How I Met Your Mother star Neil Patrick Harris says he and his family are "feeling good" months after they tested positive. He, his husband, and their 9-year-old twins, all weathered the illness in late March, early April. The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Wheeler, GA. New on the list, Craig, OK. Luce, MI. Chattahoochee, GA. East Feliciana, LA. Rosebud, MT. Bollinger, MO. Harrisonburg, VA. Hardeman, TN. And Union, FL. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Bahrain, Israel, Andorra, Montenegro, Argentina, Costa Rica, Spain, Turks and Caicos Islands, and Peru. There are 2,519,864 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: Florida, California, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Alabama overtakes Texas. Then South Carolina. There’ve been a total 195,735 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related.Globally there have been 930,758 deaths. Down 4% over 14 days.  The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 153. Texas 148. Florida 139. Virginia 96. Ohio 82. North Carolina 51. Georgia 45. Alabama 32. Tennessee 30. And Mississippi 28. Globally, there are 7,246,430 active cases with 1% in serious or critical condition.There are 266,249 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 312,135 on September 11th. The 5 Countries with the most new cases: India 91,120. United States 36,447. Brazil 34,755. Argentina 11,892. And Spain 9,437.In the United States, there are 36,836 new cases in the last 24 hours against a high of 75,682 July 15th.For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 15th, 2020.South Carolina’s lieutenant governor, Pamela Evette, tested positive. She’s had “only mild symptoms” and began quarantining last week.The CDC has guidelines for when an employee can safely return to work. Someone who’s tested positive does not need a negative test to return. Previously, the CDC recommended a negative test before resuming contact with other people.In the northeast, several K-12 school districts are delaying in-person classes after high school students attended large parties. This is similar to college students complicating reopening plans by not paying attention to protective measures.A federal judge ruled some of Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf's pandemic restrictions were unconstitutional. Plaintiffs were fighting requirements that people stay at home, limit gatherings, and "non-life-sustaining" businesses shut down.India's parliament reopened yesterday for the first time in almost six months, but at least 25 lawmakers could not enter the chamber because they tested positive. The virus is spreading faster in India than anywhere in the world, reporting nearly 100,000 new infections a day.In France, Marseille and Bordeaux enacted stricter restrictions as infection rates go up faster than the latest national surge. In Bordeaux, that means no more than 10 people in public parks, along the river and on beaches. Also, no fun fairs, antique fairs or neighborhood parties.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Wheeler, GA. Luce, MI. Chattahoochee, GA. East Feliciana, LA. Rosebud, MT. Union, FL. Harrisonburg, VA. Bollinger, MO. New on the list Edmunds, SD. And Hardeman, TN. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Bahrain, Israel, Montenegro, Argentina, Costa Rica, Andorra, Spain, Turks and Caicos Islands, and Kuwait.There are 2,522,463 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: Florida, California, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and South Carolina.There’ve been a total 194,467 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related.Globally there have been 925,617 deaths. Up 8% over 14 days. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: California 77. Texas 65. Florida 33. Pennsylvania 23. Georgia 20. Tennessee and Virginia 19. Louisiana 17. Washington 15. And South Carolina 13.Globally, there are 7,231,890 active cases with 1% in serious or critical condition.There are 242,195 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, against a high of 312,229 on September 11th.The 5 countries with the most new cases: India 81,911. United States 38,072. Brazil 19,089. Argentina 9,909. And France 6,158.In the United States, there are 33,369 new cases in the last 24 hours against a high of 75,682 on July 15th.For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 14th, 2020. Austria’s leader says that country is seeing the start of a “second wave.” Citizens are being urged to comply with reinforced rules and companies are being asked to keep employees working from home. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a new countrywide lockdown to combat a stubborn surge there, with schools and parts of the economy expected to shut down. Israelis will face restrictions on movement and on gatherings.In England, NHS bosses sent a letter to general practice doctors reminding them to offer face-to-face appointments where necessary. And they were warned they face investigation if they don’t. Some professional bodies say comments like that risk insulting doctors.A study published by the CDC says very young children, like those in daycare, can catch COVID-19 and spread the virus to adults, even if they never show symptoms. In one case, an 8-month-old baby appears to have spread it from daycare to both parents.Dr. Anthony Fauci said Friday daily life in the U.S. won't get back to normal until late 2021 when a vaccine is widely distributed. And he’s confident there’ll be one by then. But Atlanta’s trying to get back to normal. That city is moving to “phase two” of its pandemic reopening guidelines. It actually changes very little but adds a non-binding recommendation that small gatherings of up to 10 with social distancing are now okay.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: New on the list and at the top, Wheeler, GA. Luce, MI. Chattahoochee, GA. East Feliciana, LA. Rosebud, MT. Harrisonburg, VA. And all new on the list, Union FL, Bollinger, MO, Hardeman, TN, and Stutsman, ND. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Bahrain, Israel, Montenegro, Costa Rica, Argentina, new on the list Andorra, Spain, Turks and Caicos Islands, and Kuwait. There are 2,534,989 active cases in the United States. The current Top 10 states by number of active cases: Florida, California, Georgia, Arizona, Virginia, Maryland, Missouri, Texas, Alabama, and South Carolina. There’ve been a total 194,041 deaths in the US reported as COVID-related.Globally there have been 921,762 deaths. Up 8% over 14 days.  The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 67. California 52. Georgia 46. Louisiana 33. South Carolina 24. Illinois, Tennessee, and Massachusetts with 14. Minnesota 13. And Florida, Mississippi, and Arkansas all with 12. Globally, there are 7,226,481 active cases with 1% in serious or critical condition.There are 325,185 new cases around the world in the last 24 hours, a new all-time high. The 5 Countries with the most new cases: India 93,215. United States 31,857. Brazil 14,597. Argentina 9,056. And Colombia 7,355.In the United States, there are 39,192 new cases in the last 24 hours against a high of 73,524 on July 24.For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 11th, 2020. A CDC report says dining out raises the risk of contracting COVID-19 more than other activities, like shopping. Those who tested positive were approximately twice as likely to have reported dining at a restaurant than those with negative test results.More than 600 students at the University of Alabama have been sanctioned — 33 effectively suspended — for breaking the rules to curb the spread of cases on campus. Student organizations aren’t exempt either…suspension is pending for one and three have been sanctioned.Nebraska’s Governor will end nearly all social-distancing restrictions Monday. The new rules will still limit indoor gatherings like concerts, meeting halls and theaters, but will drop all other mandates in favor of voluntary guidelines.Scientists praised AstraZeneca’s decision to suspend its late-stage coronavirus vaccine trials and do a safety review after a participant developed a serious neurological condition. The goal is to find out if the condition was a reaction to the vaccine or coincidence.Western Europe has passed the U.S. in new daily Covid-19 infections after bringing the pandemic under control earlier in the summer. It’s a setback for a part of the world that seemed to have gotten a grip on the virus. Contributing to that, the number of people in England who tested positive rose 43% in one week. NHS statistics show for the week ending September 2nd, the country had the highest weekly number since test and trace was launched at the end of May.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Livingston, MO. Chattahoochee, GA. East Feliciana, LA. Luce, MI. Willacy, TX. Lincoln, AR. Kleberg, TX. Harrisonburg, VA. Rosebud, MT. And new on the list, Henry, IA. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Bahrain, Turks and Caicos Islands, Israel, Montenegro, Argentina, Costa Rica, Spain, Kuwait, and Maldives. There’ve been 6,395,904 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 191,753 deaths. The 10 states with highest cumulative case counts: California with 750,916. Texas with 669,592. Florida 654,731. New York 441,911. Georgia 289,123. Illinois 257,566. Arizona 207,002. New Jersey 195,414. North Carolina 180,754. And Tennessee with 168,237 confirmed cases. The 5 countries with the most new cases: India 96,760. Brazil 40,431. United States 38,811. Argentina 11,905. And Spain 10,764. The top 10 countries with highest overall cumulative case counts: The United States, India, Brazil, Russia, Peru, Colombia, Mexico, South Africa, Spain, and Argentina.  The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 205. Texas 165. California 100. Georgia 76. Tennessee 57. South Carolina and Mississippi at 33. Ohio 30. Illinois 28. And Arizona, Missouri and Kentucky all had 22. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 10th, 2020. Starting September 14, the U.S. government will stop conducting COVID-19 screenings of arriving international travelers. Such screenings have taken place across 15 select airports since January and included temperature checks and health questionnaires. The routing of flights from "high-risk" countries into these airports will also end Monday.If you want to trick or treat door to door this Halloween in L.A. County, you can do it without getting a ticket, but it’s still not encouraged. Yesterday the county health department said door to door trick or treat would be prohibited, but today, the Sheriff said that will not be enforced. The Director of the National Institutes of Health told a Senate committee any decisions around the release of a vaccine will be based purely on science or he "will have no part of it." Dr. Francis Collins did add he has cautious optimism at least one vaccine will have emerged and turned out to be effective by the end of 2020.New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the prohibition on indoor dining in NYC will be lifted Sept. 30. It was one of few places in the nation still with such a ban. Restaurants will be able to operate indoor dining at 25% capacity.The British government backed measures it hopes will lower the worry about new cases, especially in young adults. That includes a ban on social gatherings of more than six people in England, indoors or outdoors, a ban that will be legally enforced.France’s prime minister is self-isolating. He came into contact with the director of the Tour de France, who’s tested positive. After months of decline, France is facing a resurgence, with a daily average of 7,000 cases for the last 7 days and an increase of patients in intensive care.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA. East Feliciana, LA. Livingston, MO. Luce, MI. Willacy, TX. Lincoln, AR. Pawnee, KS. Rosebud, MT. And new on the list Harrisonburg, VA and Kleberg, TX. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Turks and Caicos Islands, Bahrain, Argentina, Costa Rica, Montenegro, Maldives, Spain, and Kuwait is new on the top 10. There’ve been 6,359,313 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 190,784 deaths. The 10 states with highest cumulative case counts: California with 747,017. Texas with 667,500. Florida 652,259. New York 441,154. Georgia 287,300. Illinois 255,613. Arizona 206,541. New Jersey 194,994. North Carolina 179,536. And Tennessee with 166,635 confirmed cases. The 5 Countries with the most new cases as of yesterday: India 95,529. United States 35,244. Brazil 34,208. Argentina 12,259. And Spain 8,866. The top 10 countries with highest overall cumulative case counts: The United States, India, Brazil, Russia, Peru, Colombia, Mexico, South Africa, Spain, and Argentina.  The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Florida 202. California 155. Texas 126. Michigan 76. Georgia 58. North Carolina 45. Mississippi 38. Tennessee 35. And Arizona and South Carolina at 30. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 9th, 2020.The CEOs of nine drug makers signed a pledge promising they won’t file for regulatory approval or authorization of experimental Covid-19 vaccines until proven safe through late-stage clinical testing. Once there is a vaccine, they also pledge to ensure supply across the world.Honolulu’s Mayor is extending their stay-at-home order for 2 weeks. But he will allow solo activity at beaches, parks, ad trails like running or eating alone in these public places. The number of new cases had not declined as much as he wanted.A new NBC - SurveyMonkey poll shows coronavirus fatigue is setting in, with rising numbers thinking businesses aren’t opening soon enough. However most American adults still worry businesses are opening too soon. The poll also shows 40% of adults say they would get a government-approved vaccine.New Mexico officials are reassuring teachers students can’t sue them if they get the virus in class. Teachers are protected by insurance that covers court costs.UK Labor Party leader Keir Starmer is warning their test-and-trace system is “on the verge of collapse.” Ministers conceded a lack of lab capacity has prevented many from getting a test. Some citizens are asking to travel to Scotland for testing.Many parents are challenging authorities in Spain on the order to return to school. They see safety measures as ill-funded as a new wave of infections sweeps the country. Some are even willing to face charges for truancy, punishable by 3-6 months in prison.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Chattahoochee, GA moves into the #1 spot. Then East Feliciana, LA. Livingston, MO. Willacy, TX. Wayne, TN. Lincoln, AR. Pawnee, KS. Radford, VA. Rosebud, MT. And Duval, TX. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Bahrain, Turks and Caicos Islands, Israel, Maldives, Argentina, Costa Rica, Spain, Peru, and Montenegro is new to the top 10.There’ve been 6,326,696 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 189,639 deaths. The 10 states with highest cumulative case counts: California with 744,425. Texas with 662,427. Florida 650,092. New York 440,578. Georgia 285,350. Illinois 254,276. Arizona 206,045. New Jersey 194,667. North Carolina 178,635. And Tennessee with 165,754 confirmed cases.The 5 Countries with the most new cases: India 89,852. United States 28,561. Brazil 17,330. Argentina 12,027. And Spain 8,964.The top 10 countries with highest overall cumulative case counts: The United States, India, Brazil, Russia, Peru, Colombia, Mexico overtakes South Africa, Spain, and Argentina. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 89. California 72. Florida 48. Tennessee 27. Georgia 26. Ohio 22. Louisiana 13. Indiana and Iowa with 12. And New York 11.For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 8th, 2020. Beaches across the United States drew major crowds over Labor Day weekend. Daytona Beach, FL went ahead with its popular Daytona Truck Meet. Numerous parking lots for San Diego, Orange and Los Angeles County beaches in CA closed after they filled to capacity. At the Jersey shore, beach staffing has been extended into September.In New York, the infection rate there has been below 1% for 30 straight days. Gov. Andrew Cuomo is encouraging residents to continue with mask wearing and social distancing. New York has seen all its region enter phase four of reopening.Bruce Williamson, the lead singer of the Temptations, died from coronavirus Sunday night at his home in Vegas at the age of 49. He was a Temptation from 2006 to 2015.England’s deputy chief medical officer has said the rise in cases in the UK is of great concern and people, especially young people, had “relaxed too much” over the summer.India has become the world's second worst-hit country behind the United States. It has with increasing urgency been trying to head off economic disaster from the pandemic. India’s Health Ministry also reported a total of 71,642 deaths, the 3rd-highest cumulative national toll.The games will go on in Tokyo. The VP of the International Olympic Committee said the 2020 Tokyo Olympics will be the "games that conquered COVID." The games were postponed in March, the first time that’s happened outside of war.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita according to The New York Times: Wayne, TN. Chattahoochee, GA. East Feliciana, LA. Livingston, MO. Willacy, TX. Lincoln, AR. Radford, VA. Rosebud, MT. Pawnee, KS. And Duval, TX. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Turks and Caicos Islands, Bahrain, Israel, Maldives, Argentina, Costa Rica, Peru, Brazil, and Spain as Sint Maarten drops out of the top 10.There’ve been 6,300,432 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 189,207 deaths. The 10 states with highest cumulative case counts: California with 741,071. Texas with 659,041. Florida 648,269. New York 440,021. Georgia 283,807. Illinois 252,884. Arizona 205,964. New Jersey 194,390. North Carolina 177,919. And Tennessee with 165,109 confirmed cases. The 5 Countries with the most new cases: India 75,022. United States 25,325. Brazil 10,188. Argentina 9,215. And Colombia 5,327. The top 10 countries with highest overall cumulative case counts: The United States, India moves into second, Brazil, Russia, Peru, Colombia, South Africa, Mexico, Spain, and Argentina.  The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 42. California 33.  New Jersey 22. South Carolina 20. New York 19. Pennsylvania 18. Florida and Ohio 17. Arkansas 14. And Louisiana 12. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 7th, 2020. 13 states are now exempt from the Massachusetts’ travel order requiring those entering the state to quarantine for 2 weeks or show a negative test result. Newly added to the low risk states list is Oregon, Washington state and Wyoming.New York will be ramping up testing, of those who have already died. They’ll be testing for the coronavirus and the flu. Deaths linked to respiratory illnesses that weren’t confirmed before death are to be tested within 48 hours to ensure more accurate death data.More than 20 NYU students have been suspended for breaking coronavirus policies. NBC News reported hundreds partying near the campus in Manhattan — many without masks. Students were told to quarantine 14 days before the start of in-person classes.Same problem in West Virginia. West Virginia University suspended 29 members of a fraternity for breaking coronavirus health and safety orders. A member who tested positive and was ordered quarantined instead went to a party at the fraternity house Friday. Plus all residents of the house had been told to isolate due to confirmed cases and close contacts.The UK has recorded quite an increase in the number of people testing positive and there are concerns the government has lost control even as citizens return to work and universities get ready to reopen. Yesterday almost 3,000 in the UK tested positive, that’s a 50% increase in one day and the highest daily total since May.Australia’s hot spot of Victoria state recorded its lowest count of new COVID-19 cases in more than 10 weeks. 41 news cases and 9 deaths in the latest 24-hour period measured. The state announced a slight easing of restrictions in Melbourne, but that city will remain in lockdown until at least Oct. 26.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita as of September 6th according to The New York Times: Wayne, TN. Chattahoochee, GA. New on the list, Livingston, MO and Willacy, TX. East Feliciana, LA. Lincoln, AR. Radford, VA. Rosebud, MT. Clay, SD. And new on the list, Duval, TX. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Turks and Caicos Islands, Bahrain, Maldives, Israel, Sint Maarten, Argentina, Peru, Costa Rica, and Brazil as the Bahamas drops out of the top 10.There’ve been 6,275,643 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 188,932 deaths. The 10 states with highest cumulative case counts: California with 738,550. Texas with 658,202. Florida 646,431. New York 439,501. Georgia 283,199. Illinois 251,515. Arizona 205,767. New Jersey 194,058. North Carolina 176,901. And Tennessee with 164,126 confirmed cases. The 5 Countries with the most new cases for September 5th: India 91,723. United States 31,110. Brazil 14,606. New to the top 5 Colombia 8,065 and France 7,071 as Argentina and Spain move off the top 5 list. The top 10 countries with highest overall cumulative case counts: The United States, Brazil, India, Russia, Peru, Colombia, South Africa, Mexico, Spain, and Argentina. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related: Texas 81. Georgia 60. Louisiana 58. Florida 39. Missouri 32. California 22. Mississippi 15. Arizona 14. Arkansas 12. And North and South Carolina at 10 each. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 4th, 2020. Los Angeles County started allowing additional re-openings. Hair salons and barbershops can operate indoors at 25% capacity with social distancing, and employees masked. And school can offer in-school services K-12 starting Sept 14 for small groups of students like those with disabilities and those with English as a second language.Colleges and universities in the U.S. are trying to control clusters of infections on their campuses, around 51,000 so far. Dr. Anthony Fauci is now urging colleges: if at all possible, don’t send students home. Dr. Deborah Birx also cautioned college students could become a source of outbreaks beyond campuses.San Francisco International Airport employees can now get a rapid-result test, less than an hour, at a new facility at the International Terminal. Meanwhile New York plans on testing sites specifically for passengers at JFK and LaGuardia.Batman has tested positive, or at least the actor playing him in the newest movie. Robert Pattinson tested positive just days after filming resumed outside London. Production has again been shut down. The British government is investing in a coronavirus test that gives results in as little as 20 minutes. Britain’s also looking at repeat testing of people without symptoms. The government says it’ll spend up to $660 million to achieve mass testing, a project called “Operation Moonshot.”Thailand had not had a confirmed locally transmitted case in 100 days. But now a prison inmate tested positive. Before his arrest, the 37-year-old man lived in Bangkok and worked as a DJ in several bars.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita as of September 3rd according to The New York Times: Wayne, TN. Chattahoochee, GA. Lincoln, AR. East Feliciana, LA. Radford, VA. Rosebud, MT. Clay, SD. Pawnee, KS. Dickens, TX. And Muskogee, OK. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Turks and Caicos Islands, Maldives, Peru, Argentina, Bahrain, Bahamas, Israel, Costa Rica, and Brazil. There’ve been 6,149,265 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 186,785 deaths. The 10 states with highest cumulative case counts: California with 725,943. Texas with 645,422. Florida 637,013. New York 437,107. Georgia 277,288. Illinois 241,704. Arizona 203,953. New Jersey 192,973. North Carolina 172,201. And Tennessee with 159,546 confirmed cases. The 5 Countries with the most new cases for September 2nd: India 84,156. Brazil 44,728. United States 44,507. Argentina 12,026. And Spain 8,959. The top 10 countries with highest overall cumulative case counts: The United States, Brazil, India, Russia, Peru, Colombia overtakes South Africa, Mexico, Spain, and Argentina. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related on September 2nd: Texas 189. California 167. Florida 152. Georgia 73. Arizona 65. Ohio 46. Nevada 27. Illinois 24. Arkansas 20. And Tennessee 18. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 3rd, 2020. The federal government has told states to prepare for a coronavirus vaccine ready to distribute by Nov. 1. The Director of the CDC said states will get permit applications from McKesson, whom the CDC will use to distribute vaccines to health departments and hospitals.Scientists in Iceland are saying after an exhaustive study of immunity COVID-19 antibodies last for at least 4 months and don’t fade quickly. If true, that’s encouraging for vaccine efforts. The study was published in the New England Journal of Medicine.Seven new studies led by the World Health Organization confirm multiple types of inexpensive steroids improve survival for severely ill COVID-19 patients. The research found steroids reduced the risk of death in the first month by about one-third compared to placebos.Actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson revealed he and everyone else in his immediate family have tested positive. He says while all have recovered, it’s been the most challenging thing he's ever been through.Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi has also tested positive. The 83-year-old is in isolation at his home near Milan. Berlusconi had recently returned from a holiday in Sardinia which saw a spike in COVID-19 cases in August.Lebanon is seeing quite an increase in the spread of the coronavirus after last month's massive explosion at Beirut's port. Since the incident, the number of cases has increased some 220% according to the International Rescue Committee.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita as of September 2nd according to The New York Times: Wayne, TN. Chattahoochee, GA. Lincoln, AR. Radford, VA. Rosebud, MT. Madison, LA. Clay, SD. East Feliciana, LA. And new on the list, Muskogee, OK and Dickens, TX. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Turks and Caicos Islands, Maldives, Sint Maarten, Peru, Andorra, Argentina, Bahrain, Costa Rica, and Israel. There’ve been 6,113,160 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 185,707 deaths. The 10 states with highest cumulative case counts: California with 721,131. Texas with 641,855. Florida 633,442. New York 436,218. Georgia 274,613. Illinois 240,344. Arizona 202,861. New Jersey 192,595. North Carolina 170,553. And Tennessee with 157,831 confirmed cases. The 5 Countries with the most new cases for September 1st: India 82,860. Brazil 48,632. United States 41,211. Argentina 10,933. And Colombia 9,270. The top 10 countries with highest overall cumulative case counts: The United States, Brazil, India, Russia, Peru, South Africa, Colombia, Mexico, Spain, and Argentina. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID-related on September 1st: Texas 183. California 158. Florida 124. Georgia 62. South Carolina 37. Mississippi 33. North Carolina 29. Virginia 29. Pennsylvania 28. And Missouri 28. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 2nd, 2020.A panel that’s part of the National Institutes of Health said there’s no solid evidence for or against recommending convalescent plasma to treat COVID-19 patients. This less than 10 days after the FDA authorized emergency use of the treatment.Florida’s ban on visiting nursing homes is being lifted by executive order of the Governor. Ron DeSantis said, “Part of having a healthy society is understanding human beings seek affection."Apple and Google launched phase 2 of their system to alert people if they might have been exposed to the virus. But even though the tech is being built directly into the phones, states have to adopt this phone-based approach for contact tracing.The cofounder of Devo and prominent film and TV composer Mark Mothersbaugh revealed he was at Cedars-Sinai hospital, with the coronavirus, and on a ventilator for 18 days. He believes he contracted the virus shuttling between his home and his Sunset Strip studios in late May.In person class is the norm as millions of children have returned to school across Europe and the Middle East. School desks are separated and all schoolchildren 11 and over in places like France and the Balkans must wear masks all day. The World Health Organization said the virus is still a threat, but school closures have hurt children's mental health and social development.Russia President Vladimir Putin said their vaccine, Sputnik V, is ready for use outside of clinical trials. Mass vaccination could begin in November or December. Meanwhile Russia’s government said coronavirus cases there have now passed one million.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita as of September 1st according to The New York Times: Wayne, TN. Chattahoochee, GA. Lincoln, AR. Luce, MI. Rosebud, MT. Clay, SD. Radford, VA. Madison, LA. East Feliciana, LA. And Madison, TX. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Turks and Caicos Islands, Maldives, Peru, Andorra, Argentina, Bahrain, Costa Rica, Israel, and Brazil.There’ve been 6,073,174 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 184,644 deaths. The 10 states with highest cumulative case counts: California with 715,616. Texas with 637,721. Florida 631,040. New York 435,510. Georgia 272,697. Illinois 238,215. Arizona 202,342. New Jersey 192,290. North Carolina 169,424. And Tennessee with 156,329 confirmed cases.The 5 Countries with the most new cases for August 31st: India 78,169. United States 41,979. Brazil 41,889. Argentina 10,504. And Colombia 8,901.The top 10 countries with highest overall cumulative case counts: The United States, Brazil, India, Russia, Peru, South Africa, Colombia, Mexico, Spain, and Argentina. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID related on August 31: Florida 190. Texas 153. California 145. Georgia 101. North Carolina 44. Illinois 38. South Carolina 37. Louisiana 34. Virginia 32. And Tennessee 27.For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coronavirus 411 090120This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for September 1st, 2020.The Associated Press reports the CDC did not backpedal on the number of deaths caused by COVID-19, reducing the figure from nearly 154,000 to just over 9,000. The CDC data is based on death certificates. For 6% of the deaths, COVID-19 was the only cause mentioned. The other 94% list COVID-19 and other conditions together.Los Angeles County public health officials reported 1,030 new coronavirus cases and 10 related deaths Sunday, but said hospitalizations actually keep declining. There were 1,089 coronavirus patients in county hospitals, the lowest number since early May and down 50% from mid-July.Several players at the US Open were made to sign a revised agreement after being in contact with another who tested positive and was removed from the tournament. They must agree to be tested daily instead of every four days like other players and their movements and activities at the site and hotel are more limited.If you ever wondered just how well online meeting platform Zoom is doing amidst the pandemic, the answer is really, really well. Their customer base has climbed 458% and revenue has increased 355%.A report analyzed by the Health Foundation in the UK suggests those under 25 have suffered more with mental health issues over the last few months than other age groups. This includes more rising levels of anxiety and an inability to concentrate.ABC reports Hong Kong authorities say nearly half a million people registered online for a free coronavirus testing program that starts today. The program aims to track down paths of infection that have added to case numbers despite strict social distancing and other measures.The top 10 counties with the highest number of recent cases per capita as of September 1st according to The New York Times: Pawnee, KS. East Feliciana, LA. Lincoln, AR. Chattahoochee, GA. Luce, MI. Rosebud, MT. Radford, VA. Clay, SD. Harper, KS. And Madison, LA. Countries with the most cases in the last 7 days per capita: Aruba, Turks and Caicos Islands, Maldives, Sint Maarten, Argentina, Bahrain, Colombia, Israel, and Panama.There’ve been 6,028,617 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 183,579 deaths. There were 35,330 new cases reported August 30. The 10 states with highest cumulative case counts: California with 711,295. Texas with 632,279. Florida 623,471. New York 434,756. Georgia 270,471. Illinois 236,724. Arizona 201,835. New Jersey 191,960. North Carolina 167,309. And Tennessee with 154,933 confirmed cases.The 5 Countries with the most new cases for August 31st: India 68,770. Brazil 48,590. United States 38,560. Argentina 9,309. And Colombia 7,230.The top 10 countries with highest overall cumulative case counts: The United States, Brazil, India, Russia, Peru, South Africa, Colombia, Mexico, Spain, and Argentina. The states with the most new deaths reported as COVID related on August 30: California 82, Florida 64, Texas 53, Mississippi 32, Georgia 28, Alabama 20, Louisiana 19, North Carolina 18, Missouri 15, and Arkansas 13 new deaths.For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday August 31st, 2020. The U.S. added one million cases in 22 days to cross 6 million, while Global case count has passed 25 million. The FDA Commissioner said his agency would be open to an emergency use authorization for a potential vaccine, before Phase III trials were finished if it was appropriate to do so, reports The New York Times. The Governor of New York deployed a SWAT team to a state university.  (The team is made up of 71 contact tracers and 8 case investigators). After cases increased on campus, likely due to large parties and gatherings reports CNN. Coronavirus task force member Dr. Birx, encouraged people to “do the right thing” when it comes to preventative COVID-19 measures. Stating “Right now, we gain freedom through wearing our masks and socially distancing”. After 5 months, New Delhi India will reopen the subway. Paris, France will begin free coronavirus testing citywide, utilizing mobile labs.  The lockdown in Auckland, New Zealand ended Sunday night. Schools in Hong Kong will reopen classrooms on September 23rd. They have conducted virtual learning since early February. The airport in Ghana reopens this week, it has been closed since March. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday August 28th, 2020. The FDA has granted and emergency use authorization to a $5 COVID-19 test that gives results in 15 minutes. Iowa will close all bars and taverns in 6 counties. North Carolina State is asking all students who live on campus to move out by September 6th. The University of South Carolina is considering closing the campus as cases double in one day. Alabama extends the mandatory mask requirement for another 5 weeks. Delta has put over 200 passengers on a no-fly list for refusal to wear a mask. Lebanon recorded their highest daily increase Thursday with 689 new cases. South Korea increased restrictions in Seoul. Germany will introduce stricter measures to keep the virus at bay including fines for not wearing a mask, extending a ban on large gatherings and avoiding non-essential travel to high risk areas. The UK Government is encouraging citizens to return to the workplace.  German health officials said they plan to have a vaccine ready by early 2021. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

082720This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday August 27th, 2020. The island of Oahu in Hawaii is under a mandatory 2-week lockdown. California will not follow updated testing guidelines from the CDC. The new guidelines said those who were asymptomatic, but had been exposed did not need to be tested.   California also announced a new partnership that will increase testing and provide test results in at most two days.  New Jersey will reopen gyms and indoor amusement facilities at 25% capacity next week.   New Mexico resumes indoor dining Saturday.  Moderna released results on Phase I testing for their vaccine candidate. It has proven safe and an immune response was achieved. India set a new one-day record with 75,760 new cases. Kenya extended their nationwide curfew for 30 days. New Zealand will begin fining people who don’t wear a mask on public transportation. The World Economic Forum has moved from January to next summer. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment. Hotspots displaying faster rates of growth as of August 26th according to The New York Times:  Guam.  Top 10 U.S. counties: Issaquena Mississippi, Pawnee and Harper Kansas, Chattahoochee Georgia, Luce Michigan, Madison and East Feliciana Louisiana, Maverick, Madison and Firestone Texas. Globally: Aruba, Turks and Caicos, Sint Maarten, Maldives, Peru, Bahrain, Colombia, Gibraltar, Argentina, Panama, Brazil, Costa Rica, Israel, Spain, Moldova, Kuwait. There have been 5,823,685 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 179,743 deaths.  There were 44,877new cases reported yesterday. The 10 states with highest case counts:   California 687,612, Texas 619,836, Florida 608,714, New York 436,063, Georgia 244,494, Illinois 227,872, Arizona 199,495, New Jersey 192,086, North Carolina 159,708, Louisiana 145,123. The 5 Countries with the largest daily increases for August 26th, according to the WHO: India 67,151, Brazil 17,078, Colombia 10,549, Argentina 8,713, Peru 6,112. The 10 Countries with highest overall case counts: Brazil 3,717,156, India 3,310,234, Russia 972,972, South Africa 615,701, Peru 607,382, Mexico 573,888, Colombia 572,243, Spain 419,849, Chile 402,365, Argentina 370,188. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday August 26th, 2020. The CDC updated testing guidelines, removing those who do not have symptoms, even if they have been exposed to the virus. Researchers discovered that a conference in Boston in February, may have led to tens of thousands of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and abroad reports The New York Times. An entire 4th grade class, more than 200, in a Mississippi school has been quarantined.  Governor Whitmer of Michigan said she wouldn’t “be bullied” in to re-opening businesses before it was safe to do so. New York took Alaska, Arizona, Delaware, Maryland and Montana off of their travel advisory list. 29 states and 2 territories remain on the list. The Federal government will require regular testing of all nursing home employees. A study published in Nature magazine, reveals men produce a weaker response to COVID-19 than women. Two cases of reinfection have been reported in Europe, this follows one in Hong Kong. India has logged over 1.5 million cases in August. Spain’s Prime Minister said the army is ready to help regions that don’t have enough contact tracers. South Korea has closed schools in Seoul. The Pope will resume public appearances starting September 2nd, reports CNN. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday August 25th, 2020. A judge in Florida ruled that the state cannot force public schools to open their classroom for in person instruction notes the New York Times.  Ohio State expelled 228 students for safety violations related to the virus. Hospitalizations in California are down over 20% in the last two weeks, reports CNN. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will receive regular COVID-19 tests according to the campaign. The Governor of New York said testing sites will be set up for those arriving at JFK and LaGuardia airports. The NFL reported zero positive tests on Monday. The NHL reported their 4th week with zero positive tests. A man in Hong Kong is the first to have contracted COVID-19 twice. The second time, he was asymptomatic. The Gaza Strip is on full lockdown after 4 tested positive in a refugee camp, reports The Washington Post. Germany has issued travel warnings for parts of France, due to an increase in cases. Hong Kong will ease mask and social distancing requirements starting Friday. Belarus will be the first country to get the potential Russian vaccine. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday August 24th, 2020. The FDA issued an emergency use authorization for convalescent plasma for the treatment of COVID-19. Florida and Texas have crossed over 600,000 cases. The Governor of Texas said they are staging transport aircraft, disinfecting teams and mobile testing sites, as they brace for a hurricane followed by a tropical storm.  Officials in Louisiana are encouraging residents to put masks, hand sanitizer and PPE in their emergency kits and to only shelter with members of their household. 400 cases have been diagnosed in 20 days on the Notre Dame campus, they have suspended in person classes. The Chair of the RNC, says they plan to test all Republican National Convention attendees on arrival in Charlotte. South Korea has suspended in person classes in nearly 2,000 schools. The President of South Korea warned the new virus crisis is much more severe than the first. Peru is approaching 600,000 cases. France reported their highest daily total post lockdown Sunday with 4,897. Lebanon has re-instated a partial lockdown.  The UK Prime Minister said it was “vitally important” that students there get back in the classroom next week.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coronavirus 411 - 082120This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday August 21st, 2020.Remember how there was a change where COVID numbers should be reported to Health and Human Services instead of the CDC? Never mind. The Department is turning responsibility for data collection back to the CDC.U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana confirmed yesterday he tested positive, and he’s a doctor. At least 15 other members of the House and Senate have tested positive or are presumed to have had COVID-19 since the pandemic began.South Dakota health officials warned several who attended the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally have indeed come down with COVID-19. The Health Department didn’t give the exact number of positive cases but did say it was under 25.NYC released the results of about 1.5M antibody tests that appear to confirm lower income communities were deeply affected. Hardest-hit was Corona, Queens and Borough Park, Brooklyn. Wealthier neighborhoods fared much better, no ZIP code below 96th Street in Manhattan had positive antibody results over 20%.India counted another record number of new infections as it ramped up testing to more than 900,000 a day. The country also reported 977 fatalities in 24 hours. India has the world's second-highest population of 1.4B people.The World Health Organization has apparently started talking with Russia to learn more about their experimental vaccine that country approved. It has not passed advanced trials to prove it works before being licensed, which is a breach of scientific protocol.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment. Hotspots displaying faster rates of growth as of August 21st, according to The New York Times: Top 10 U.S. counties: Lafayette and Suwannee Counties Florida. Chicot, Lincoln and Lee Counties, Arkansas. Phillips, Montana. Pawnee, Kansas. Stephens, Texas. Haywood, Tennessee. And Chattahoochee, GA. Globally, the current hotspots are: Aruba, Sint Maarten, Turks and Caicos Islands, Peru, Bahrain, Maldives, Panama, Brazil, Colombia, and the Bahamas.There’ve been 5,573,501 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 174,248 deaths. There were 46,436 new cases reported yesterday. The 10 states with highest case counts: California with 652,183. Florida 588,602. Texas 579,892. New York 427,803. Georgia 246,741. Illinois 215,052. Arizona 196,280. New Jersey 188,527. North Carolina 149,904. And Louisiana with 140,821 confirmed cases.The 5 Countries with the largest daily increases for August 21st: India 68,507. United States 45,341. Brazil 44,684, Colombia 11,541. Peru 8,639.The 10 Countries with highest overall case counts:The United States 5,573,501Brazil 3,501,975India 2,836,925Russia 939,833South Africa 599,940Peru 558,420Mexico 543,806Colombia 502,178Chile 391,849And Spain with 377,906For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coronavirus 411 082020This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday August 20th, 2020.The FDA was getting ready last week to issue emergency authorization for blood plasma as a treatment for Covid-19. But health officials including Dr. Anthony Fauci have intervened and now that’s on hold. They say the data on blood plasma treatment is too weak.Pharmacists in all 50 states can now give childhood vaccinations. The head of Health and Human Services used coronavirus emergency powers to help stop vaccination rates from falling during the pandemic.A former state health director says Arizona’s downward trend of cases means parts of the state could meet the three metrics set for a partial reopening of schools by Labor Day.Meanwhile, in NYC, the president of the city’s largest teacher’s union says they’re prepared to strike unless the mayor makes major changes to the current school reopening plan. No more Public Health England. A reorganization will create a new National Institute for Health Protection. Critics say Public Health England is being made a scapegoat for mishandling of the pandemic.Australia is serious about its lockdowns, extended four more weeks in Victoria. Police checkpoints are in place with sizable fines for anyone breaking the rules. Citizens report some of the larger checkpoints are monitored by military personnel.Movie production was largely shut down by the coronavirus, but cameras are set to roll again in September in London on The Batman. The UK has also given the green light to resume production on Mission: Impossible 7.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment. Hotspots displaying faster rates of growth as of August 20th, according to The New York Times: Top 10 U.S. counties: Lafayette and Suwannee Counties Florida. Chicot, Lincoln and Lee Counties, Arkansas. Phillips and Big Horn Counties, Montana. Pawnee, Kansas. Stephens, Texas. And Holt, Missouri. Globally, the current hotspots are: Aruba, Sint Maarten, Turks and Caicos Islands, Peru, Bahrain, Maldives, Panama, Brazil, Colombia, and Faroe Islands.There’ve been 5,525,235 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 172,970 deaths. There were 45,075 new cases reported yesterday. The 10 states with highest case counts: California with 643,385. Florida 584,047. Texas 574,341. New York 427,202. Georgia 243,978. Illinois 213,209. Arizona 195,557. New Jersey 188,427. North Carolina 147,924. And Louisiana with 139,903 confirmed cases.The 5 Countries with the largest daily increases for August 20th: India 69,196. Brazil 48,541. United States 44,597. Colombia 13,056. Peru 9,099.The 10 Countries with highest overall case counts:The United States 5,525,235Brazil 3,407,354India 2,767,273Russia 935,066South Africa 596,060Peru 549,321Mexico 531,239Colombia 489,122Chile 390,037And Spain with 370,867For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coronavirus 411 – 081920This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday August 19th, 2020.An NBC News Tracking Poll shows 22% of American adults say they would not get a government-approved coronavirus vaccine even if there was one widely available. 44% say they would get the vaccine, 32% aren't sure.NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio signed an executive order saying all hotels and AirBnB style properties must get travelers from restricted states to fill out quarantine forms before allowing access.The University of Notre Dame reported 80 new cases, tripling their total infection number. That has them at levels close to what made UNC-Chapel Hill switch to all online classes.Not a lot has been written about how COVID-19 has affected animals, but apparently, mink farms have been hit in Denmark and the U.S. The USDA confirmed the virus after farmers in Utah reported a rash of mink deaths.The WHO Director-General is worried about vaccine nationalism. He wants countries to join a pact so that vaccines aren’t hoarded by some countries at the expense of others.In an attempt to contain rising infections without shutting down its economy, France is now mandating masks in all workplaces.  Britain’s official statistics agency reports rates of depression have almost doubled since their late March lockdown. 19.2% up from 9.7%.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment. Hotspots displaying faster rates of growth as of August 19th, according to The New York Times: Top 10 U.S. counties: Lafayette and Suwannee Counties Florida. Chicot, Lincoln and Lee Counties, Arkansas. Phillips, Montana. Scott, Kansas. Stephens, Texas. Pawnee, Kansas. And Holt, Missouri. Globally, the current hotspots are: Aruba, Sint Maarten, Turks and Caicos Islands, Peru, Colombia, Bahrain, Panama, Maldives, Brazil, and Faroe IslandsThere’ve been 5,481,557 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 171,793 deaths. There were 35,112 new cases reported yesterday. The 10 states with highest case counts: California with 638,140. Florida 579,932. Texas 568,812. New York 426,571. Georgia 241,677. Illinois 210,924. Arizona 194,920. New Jersey 188,098. North Carolina 146,779. And Louisiana with 139,125 confirmed cases.The 5 Countries with the largest daily increases for August 19th: India 65,022. Brazil 48,637. United States 43,999. Colombia 12,462. Peru 7,828.The 10 Countries with highest overall case counts:The United States 5,481,557Brazil 3,407,354India 2,702,742Russia 930,276South Africa 592,144Peru 541,493 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coronavirus 411 - 081820This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday August 18th, 2020.NY Gov. Andrew Cuomo said New York City’s museums and other cultural institutions will be allowed to reopen Aug. 24.In Iowa, thousands of recent cases may have been falsely reported as happening in March, April, May and June according to a nurse practitioner in Iowa City who analyzed discrepancies in the state’s figures.UNC Chapel Hill is switching to remote learning for all undergrad classes starting tomorrow after a number of cases emerged.Researchers at the University of Washington School of Medicine tells Reuters that in patients with mild COVID-19, immune responses last months, maybe even longer. Three months after recovery, patients still had antibodies, B cells, and T cells. They say this supports CDC advice patients don’t need to be retested within three months after infection.Facebook says it took down 7M posts with covid-19 misinformation from Facebook and Instagram between April and June. They also put warnings on 98M posts, saying they were misleading but not harmful enough to remove.Bus drivers in Sydney are talking about striking unless masks are required for passengers on crowded buses and social distancing on public transport is strictly enforced.A week after that blast that devastated Beirut, they’ve reported a record number of new cases — 300 — as well as seven related deaths.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment. Hotspots displaying faster rates of growth as of August 18th, according to The New York Times: Top 10 U.S. counties: Lafayette, Suwannee, and Union Counties Florida. Chicot, Lincoln and Lee Counties, Arkansas. Phillips, Montana. Scott, Kansas. And Stephens and Bee Counties, Texas. Globally, the current hotspots are: Aruba, Sint Maarten, Turks and Caicos Islands, Bahrain, Panama, Peru, Colombia, Brazil, Maldives, and Faroe Islands.There’ve been 5,437,969 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 170,491 deaths. There were 42,048 new cases reported yesterday. The 10 states with highest case counts: California with 629,415. Florida 576,094. Texas 561,110. New York 425,916. Georgia 238,861. Illinois 209,185. Arizona 194,005. New Jersey 187,767. North Carolina 145,516. And Louisiana with 138,485 confirmed cases.The 5 Countries with the largest daily increases for August 18th: India 54,288. United States 40,612. Brazil 23,038. Colombia 8,328. Russia 4,892.The 10 Countries with highest overall case counts:The United States 5,437,969Brazil 3,359,570India 2,647,663Russia 925,558South Africa 589,886Peru 535,946Mexico 525,733Colombia 468,332Chile 387,502And Spain with 359,082For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coronavirus 411 081720This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday August 17th, 2020.Researchers from Yale created the SalivaDirect test, which got emergency use authorization from the FDA. It claims results inexpensively in 3 hours, with accuracy on par with nasal swabbing.An Oklahoma State University off-campus sorority house is quarantined after 23 members tested positive. Residents can’t leave and the Health Department is monitoring those involved.The CDC says the number and rate of cases in children have risen since the spring. They say the infection rate in children 17 and under increased “steadily” from March to July.With fall and winter on the way, experts worry about a possible “twindemic,” a severe flu season combined with Covid-19. How worried are they? The CDC usually buys 500,000 doses of flu shots for uninsured adults, but this year ordered an additional 9.3M doses.All retirement homes in New Zealand will be closed to everyone but staff and essential deliveries. This after New Zealand confirmed 9 new locally transmitted cases that broke the 102-day streak without recording a local infection.Also in New Zealand, the Prime Minister is delaying the country's parliamentary election 4 weeks after reemergence of the virus.France’s health ministry reported 3,015 new infections over the last 24 hours, that’s the second day in a row new cases surpassed 3,000.Party’s over in Italy. They’ve shut down discos and clubs and are making masks compulsory even outdoors in some places between 6pm and 6am. Cases have double in 3 weeks and the average age of those affected is now below 40.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment. Hotspots displaying faster rates of growth as of August 17th, according to The New York Times: Top 10 U.S. counties: Lafayette, Suwanee, Union, and Gulf Counties Florida. Chicot, Ark. Phillips, Mont.      Stephens and Bee Counties, Texas. Greensville, Va. And Scott, Kan. Globally, the current hotspots are: Aruba, Turks and Caicos Islands, Sint Maarten, Bahrain, Panama, Peru, Colombia, Faroe Islands, Maldives, and Brazil.There’ve been 5,402,803 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 170,028 deaths. There were 48,313 new cases reported yesterday. The 10 states with highest case counts: California with 628,873. Florida 573,416. Texas 555,187. New York 425,508. Georgia 237,030. Illinois 207,412. Arizona 193,537. New Jersey 187,455. North Carolina 144,952. And Louisiana with 137,918 confirmed cases.The 5 Countries with the largest daily increases for August 17th, according to the WHO: India 58,108. United States 36,843. Brazil 22,365. Colombia 11,643. Peru 10,143.The 10 Countries with highest overall case counts:The United States 5,402,803Brazil 3,340,197India 2,589,682Russia 920,719South Africa 587,345Peru 525,803Mexico 517,714Colombia 456,689Chile 385,946And Iran surpasses Spain on the list with 343,204For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday August 14th, 2020. California has crossed 600,000 cases of COVID-19, giving it the 5th highest case count in the world behind the U.S., Brazil, India and Russia. Florida and Texas are not far behind. The CDC is projecting 189,000 fatalities due to the virus by September 5th. The Senate did not reach an agreement on a new stimulus package, they are now on break through the end of August. The Governor of Georgia is dropping his lawsuit against city officials in Atlanta over a mandatory mask requirement. He will instead issue an executive order. France declared Paris and Marseilles as “zones of active circulation” allowing local authorities to implement necessary restrictions to combat the virus. New Zealand extended the lockdown in Auckland for 12 more days. Travelers from France, Malta and The Netherlands will have to quarantine for 14 days upon entering Britain. The UK set up deals with Novavax and Janssen’s vaccine candidate, adding an additional 90 million potential doses to their stockpile. Vietnam will purchase Russia’s potential vaccine, reports The Washington Post. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday August 13th, 2020. There were 1,470 fatalities due to COVID-19 in the U.S. yesterday, the highest since mid-May. Over 2,000 students, teachers and employees from school districts in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Mississippi and Oklahoma have been placed under quarantine after potential exposure to the virus. For the first time since March, less than one million filed for first time unemployment benefits last week.  Movie Theater chain AMC will re-open more than 100 theaters next week. India surpassed Britain in total fatalities due to the virus and now has the 4th highest death rate in the world behind The U.S., Brazil and Mexico. Case rates are rising in France, Germany, Greece and Spain. New Zealand recorded 13 new cases linked to community transmission. The President of Argentina said Mexico and Argentina will produce AstraZeneca’s vaccine candidate for all of Latin America, with the exception of Brazil.   Relaying the price of the potential vaccine will be between $3 and $4 per dose. Phase III clinical trials of Russia’s vaccine candidate will begin in The Philippines in October. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday August 12th, 2020. Florida and Georgia recorded their highest daily death toll on Tuesday. Over 900 students and teachers from a school district in Georgia will quarantine after potential exposure to the virus.   New Hampshire has made masks mandatory for any gathering of over 100.  The Federal Government signed a 1.5-billion-dollar deal with Moderna for 100 million doses of their potential vaccine. The American Medical Association are urging the Health and Human Services Secretary to update testing guidelines. The Big 10 and Pac 12 college conferences have cancelled all Fall sports.The German Health Minister was one of many around the world unsure of Russia’s vaccine claim, stating,” It is not about being first, it is about having an effective, a tried and with that a safe vaccine”. Philippine President Duterte, said he would get the Russian COVID-19 vaccine, reports CNN. New Zealand has re-entered partial lockdown. Belgium is mandating face masks in the Brussels region. The UK’s economy shrunk by more than 20% in the second quarter, officially signaling a recession. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday August 11th, 2020. Global cases have crossed 20 million. The world added an additional 10 million cases in 6 weeks. The President has requested that the G7 summit be postponed until after the election, it was originally slated for June but postponed due to the pandemic.  The Mayor of New York City says he plans to “welcome 700,000 students back to school buildings for in person instruction” in September, reports The Washington Post. Illinois has made it a felony to assault a service worker who enforces the mask requirement. A Russian health care regulator has approved a vaccine for the coronavirus, despite the fact it has yet to complete Phase III clinical trials. Russia plans to vaccinate millions of citizens. A day after marking 100 days without any community transmission, New Zealand recorded 4 new cases of COVID-19. For the first time in 13 days, Japan has recorded less than 1,000 new daily cases. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday August 10th, 2020. The U.S. added another one million cases in 17 days, bringing the total to 5 million. More than 97,000 children tested positive for the virus in the last two weeks of July, reports the American Academy of Pediatrics. President Trump singed an executive order for new unemployment benefits and extending the moratorium on evictions.  Good news out of New York state, as they logged their lowest positivity rate yet with .78. Greece recorded their highest daily case count with 203. The country reopened to tourists July 1st. India and Australia set a record for daily fatalities. Starting today, France will require masks be worn outdoors when social distancing is not possible. The British Prime Minister said the British government has a “moral duty” to get students back in the classroom in September.  New Zealand recognized 100 days with no local transmission of COVID-19. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday August 7th, 2020. The Governor of Ohio tested negative in a second COVID-19 test, hours after testing positive on Thursday. A model from The University of Washington predicts 300,000 U.S. fatalities from the virus by December. They did say that could be lowered by as much as 66,000 if 95% of people wore a mask in public. Hawaii will begin a 14-day quarantine on inter-island travel. The State Department lifted the international “do not travel” advisory. Though many countries have travel restrictions against those coming from the U.S. Global cases passed 19 million. Norway will reinstate some social distancing restrictions after a rise in cases there. Hong Kong will offer all citizens universal coronavirus testing. The Australian Prime Minister said he believes whichever country finds a vaccine for COVID-19 must share it with the world “without restraint”. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday August 6th, 2020. Coronavirus Task Force Member Dr. Fauci, said the world may never be rid of COVID-19, but a vaccine and public health measures will keep it under control. President Trump is considering an executive order to reinstate the eviction moratorium, increase unemployment benefits and temporarily suspend the payroll tax as Congress has yet to reach an agreement on the next stimulus bill. Students and teachers in Indiana, Georgia, Mississippi and North Carolina are in quarantine after exposure to COVID-19 at the start of the school year. The Mayor of Los Angeles will cut off power and water to homes that continue to host large parties. Peru set a new daily case record, while France and Germany recorded their highest daily infection numbers since May. The Associated Press is reporting that North Korea has put thousands of people in to quarantine, despite insisting there have been no positive cases in the country. Melbourne, Australia has shut all non-essential businesses.  Belgium will be added to the list of countries, requiring quarantine upon entry to the UK. Spain and Luxembourg are already on the list. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday August 5th, 2020. As a new school year begins, many states are making last minute changes. The Washington Post notes, in Georgia, the waitlist for online learning is sending many students back to in person classes. Mississippi has delayed the start of the school year and Ohio will require masks in schools. The Mayor of Jackson, Mississippi says he fears the state has “yet to see the worst” of the pandemic. In Florida, 52 hospitals are at ICU capacity, reports CNN. 6 states have entered a partnership to increase testing and reduce wait time in their states, according to The New York Times. Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio and Virginia will purchase 3 million tests. Novavax released Phase I data, showing that their vaccine candidate is safe and that participants developed antibodies more than 4 times higher than average. Ukraine recorded a record number of daily cases. The Prime Minister of Kosovo tested positive for COVID-19. Bolivia canceled school for the remainder of 2020, the government said it’s because the majority of rural areas do not have internet access. Ireland has extended mask requirements and delayed reopening pubs to the end of August. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday August 4th, 2020. President Trump said COVID-19 is “under control as much as you can control it” in an interview Monday night with Axios on HBO, in reference to the death toll, he said “It is what it is”. Negotiations continue on the latest coronavirus relief package. White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, said he was “not optimistic that there will be a solution in the very near term”. A corrections officer in Miami Dade County has died due to COVID-19. There are nearly 500 positive cases among inmates and employees of the Turner Gilford Knight Correctional Center. Protesters around the country are calling for science and health concerns to lead the conversation on reopening schools.  The Secretary General of the UN called the coronavirus pandemic “the largest disruption of education ever” and that the world is facing a “generational catastrophe”. 340 passengers and crew are in isolation after a passenger tested positive for COVID-19 on board a cruise ship in the South Pacific. The Bahama’s will re-institute lockdown orders after a rise in cases and shortage of ICU beds. The Islands reopened to tourists in July.  French scientists are warning of a second wave of the virus in the fall. Reinforcing the need for social distancing, testing and isolation for those most at risk.   The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

080320This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday August 3rd, 2020. Coronavirus Task Force Member Dr. Birx told CNN, that the U.S. has entered a new phase with the virus becoming “extraordinarily widespread”. She recommended wearing a mask at home if you live with compromised individuals.  Nevada approved a plan to mail ballots to all registered voters for the November election. Eli Lilly will enter Phase III clinical trials for their antibody treatment. They will recruit 2400 residents and employees from long term care facilities for the trials. Melbourne, Australia declared “a state of disaster” with the Premier stating “Where you slept last night is where you’ll need to stay for the next six weeks”. They also implemented a curfew from 8PM to 5AM. Workers in England can be asked to return to the workplace if employers believe they are free of the virus. The UK has acquired millions of 90-minute coronavirus tests, the tests can also detect the flu. The Department of Health noted the tests will increase testing capacity and help quickly break the chain of transmission. Russia will launch a nationwide vaccination campaign in October. The vaccine has yet to complete clinical trials. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment. Hotspots displaying faster rates of growth as of August 2nd, according to The New York Times: Florida. Top 10 Counties: Madison and Cameron County Texas, Chicot County Arkansas, Sharkey, George, Tallahatchie County Mississippi, Chattahoochee County Georgia, Jefferson and Gulf County Florida, Cibola County New Mexico. Globally: Panama, Maldives, Bahrain, Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Equatorial Guinea, Israel, South Africa, Kosovo, Kuwait. There have been 4,668,395 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States and 154,860 deaths.  There were 48,849 new cases reported yesterday. The 10 states with highest case counts:   California 515,937, Florida 487,124, Texas 452,826, New York 421,008, New Jersey 184,225, Illinois 183,662, Arizona 178,473, Georgia 177,556, North Carolina 125,339, Louisiana 119,861.The 5 Countries with the largest daily increases for August 2nd, according to the WHO: India 54,735, Brazil 52,383, South Africa 10,107, Colombia 9,488, Mexico 8,458. The 10 Countries with highest overall case counts: Brazil 2,733,677, India 1,803,695, Russia 854,641, South Africa 511,485, Mexico 439,046, Peru 428,850, Chile 359,731, Colombia 317,651, Iran 312,035, United Kingdom 306,319. For the latest updates, subscribe for free to Coronavirus 411 on your podcast app or ask your smart speaker to play the Coronavirus 411 podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday July 31st, 2020. The U.S. economy shrank 32.9% in the second quarter. The largest decrease on record. 1.4 million Americans filed for first time unemployment yesterday. The federal government signed a deal with Sanofi/GlaxoSmithKline for 2.1 billion dollars. To secure 100 million doses of their potential vaccine. Herman Cain died Thursday from complications of COVID-19, the well-known businessman and talk show host sought the Republican Presidential Nomination in 2012. A student in Indiana tested positive for the virus on the first day of in person classes, notes The Washington Post. A University of Washington model is now projecting more than 230,000 deaths due to the virus in the US by November. Researcher’s found blood plasma from virus survivors infused in to COVID-19 patients reduced the rate of death by 57%, reports CNN.  Vietnam recorded their first COVID-19 related death as another new daily case record was set on Friday. Japan and Morocco also saw record daily new cases. New restrictions are in effect in Northern England, including a ban on any gathering at private homes. Hong Kong will postpone their election for a year, citing virus concerns. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday July 30th, 2020. Over 150,000 U.S. lives have been lost due to the virus. Representative Gohmert of Texas has tested positive for the virus. Masks are now required on the floor of The House. The Head of the Federal Reserve noted yesterday, “Social distancing measures and a fast reopening of the economy actually go together. They’re not in competition with each other”. Maryland has expanded their mask mandate. Anyone over age 5 must wear a mask inside public spaces and outdoors when social distancing is not possible. Johnson & Johnson began Phase I human trials today on their vaccine candidate. Earlier studies on monkeys showed one dose protected the animals against the virus. Global cases have crossed 17 million. Victoria, Australia had record new daily cases and deaths on Thursday. Japan saw another record day Wednesday with daily cases over 1,000 for the first time. The Vice President of Gambia tested positive for COVID-19. Italy extended their state of emergency to October 15th. Allowing the government additional resources to contain and stop the spread of the virus. The UK extended the isolation period for those with symptoms of COVID-19 from 7 to 10 days. The German economy shrunk by 10.1% in the second quarter, the largest decline since they began keeping records in the 70’s. Brazil will resume international flights and tourism in the country, despite rising case and fatality rates. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday July 29th, 2020. The Director of the CDC admitted to ABC news, that the introduction of the virus from Europe, “happened before we realized what was happening”. “That’s where the large seeding came in the United States”. The American Federation of Teacher’s said that if teachers are forced to go back to unsafe classrooms, they may go on strike. Two newly released studies relay that COVID-19 could lead to heart problems even after even a patient has recovered from the virus. Coronavirus Task Force Member Dr. Birx, said Arizona, California, Florida and Texas “have shown significant improvement” after taking steps to reinforce social distancing. The Spokesperson for the WHO, has described COVID-19 as one big wave that is not influenced by seasonal trends.   Japan experienced a record number of daily cases Tuesday, with 981.  A new report relays more than half of those living in the slums of Mumbai, India may have contracted the virus, reports CNN. The Indian state West Bengal extends their lockdown through the end of August. The European Commission secured a 74-million-dollar deal with the makers of Remdesivir to treat an estimated 30,000 patients. The UK signed a deal for 60 million doses of Sanofi/GSK’s vaccine candidate. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday July 28th, 2020. Senate Republicans debuted their 1 trillion-dollar coronavirus relief bill. The bill includes a second round of stimulus checks and reduces weekly emergency unemployment benefits by $400 a week. The bill will be debated in Congress prior to a vote. National Security Advisor O’Brien has tested positive for the virus. He is the highest ranking official to do so thus far. The head of the ICU at a Baltimore hospital has died due to COVID-19, relays The Washington Post. The Governor of Kentucky has closed bars for two weeks and reduced restaurant capacity. China recorded 68 cases yesterday, their highest number since early March. Belgium will reinstate social distancing restrictions, confirmed cases increased by 70% in July. Danang in Vietnam has re-entered lockdown after 15 cases were diagnosed there. The Venice Film Festival will take place in September, masks and temperature checks will be required and films will be screened outdoors. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday July 27th, 2020. Florida passed New York and now has the second highest case count in the U.S. after California. Alaska, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Tennessee set new daily case records. Coronavirus Task Force Member Dr. Birx, encouraged states with rising case loads to close bars and limit the size of social gatherings. McDonald’s restaurants will require masks be worn at their over 14,000 locations. Senate Republicans are expected to unveil a one trillion-dollar coronavirus relief proposal. Moderna began Phase III clinical trials in the U.S. today for their vaccine candidate. Victoria, Australia had their highest number of new daily cases on Monday with 532. India also broke their daily record. Vietnam evacuated 80,000 tourists from Danang after 4 cases were reported. Vietnam had gone 100 days with no new cases. Hong Kong resumed strict social distancing guidelines including no gatherings of more than 2 people, no in restaurant dining and mandated masks. The United Kingdom will reinstate a two-week quarantine for anyone arriving from Spain. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday July 24th, 2020. The U.S. crossed 4 million cases, with Alabama, Hawaii, Indiana Missouri and New Mexico setting new daily records. 96 employees of a seafood processing plant in Alaska have tested positive for the virus. The plant says most did not have symptoms and none had been hospitalized. Washington State announced new restrictions on large gatherings, including weddings, funerals and restaurants. The Jacksonville, Florida portion of the Republican National Convention has been cancelled. The Governor of Arizona changed his policy and said schools would not have to reopen in Mid-August. This follows days of teacher protests. New guidelines released by the CDC favor reopening schools. Uganda reported their first COVID-19 related death. Mexico, Japan and India hit record new daily case numbers on Thursday. Cases in Southern Brazil have tripled in one month, according to CNN. South Africa has shutdown public schools for a month. China will loan 1 billion dollars to Latin America and The Caribbean for access to a COVID-19 vaccine when it arrives. Russia will resume some international flights August 1st. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday July 23rd, 2020. We are approaching 4 million cases in the U.S., 915,000 of them were added in the last two weeks. CNN notes that is more than all of the cases reported in June. President Trump told Fox News; he thinks testing is “overrated” but he is willing for the country to keep doing it. California, Missouri, North Dakota and West Virginia reported record daily cases yesterday. California passed New York and now has the most COVID-19 cases in the U.S.  1.4 million Americans filed for first time unemployment last week. After postponing this spring, Major League Baseball celebrates Opening Day for an abridged season today.  Global cases have crossed 15 million. Japan and Argentina reported record daily cases yesterday. A report written by the British Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee, relayed their disappointment in the government’s preparedness planning for a pandemic, noting, ““We are astonished by the government’s failure to consider in advance how it might deal with the economic impacts of a pandemic”. Victoria, Australia will pay people to stay home while they wait for COVID-19 test results. Dubai’s Emirates Airlines, will cover medical and quarantine costs for any passenger who tests positive for the virus during their travels. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday July 22nd, 2020. More than 1,000 deaths due to the virus were reported in the U.S. yesterday, the highest since June 2nd.  In the first public Coronavirus Task Force briefing since April, President Trump said the COVID-19 outbreak will probably “get worse before it gets better”. He also encouraged Americans to wear a mask in public. Miami set up a mask enforcement unit within the police department.   An estimated 7 to 8 billion dollars allocated months ago for testing in the U.S. remains unspent, reports CNN. The federal government has signed a deal with Pfizer for 100 million doses of their vaccine candidate. Australia, Argentina, the Czech Republic and Hong Kong reported record daily cases. A new study relays that almost 25% of residents in the Indian capital of Delhi have had the virus, reports The Guardian. Zimbabwe has imposed a curfew and will reinstate measures to curb the spread of the virus. The President of Brazil continues to test positive for COVID-19, two weeks after his initial diagnosis. The banquet affiliated with the Nobel Prize Ceremony has been cancelled. After 4 months of lockdown, Nepal will begin loosening restrictions. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday July 21st, 2020. The Oxford University/AstraZeneca vaccine candidate released positive data on their early stage trials, noting that it has produced promising response in large early stage trials. They are currently in Phase III trials in the UK, Brazil & South Africa and will begin a U.S. trial soon. President Trump will resume the public Coronavirus Task Force briefings and he said wearing a mask is “patriotic”.  Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota and Puerto Rico reported record hospitalizations due to the virus.  The largest teacher’s union in Florida, will sue the state over resuming in person classes. The European Union has set aside $859 billion for loans and grants to rescue member economies from the devastation caused by COVID-19. Health officials in Spain said their infection rate has tripled since restrictions were lifted. Mainland China will require proof of a negative test within 5 days prior to boarding a flight in to the country. The territory Delhi, India reported fewer than 1,000 cases in a 24-hour period for the first time in 6 weeks. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday July 20th, 2020. Sunday saw new daily case records in Kentucky, Louisiana, Oregon and South Carolina. There are no adult ICU beds available in over 100 Florida hospitals. The Mayor of Los Angeles warned the city is “on the brink” of shutting down again. In an interview with Fox News on Sunday, President Trump said, “I’ll be right eventually.  You know I said, ‘it’s going to disappear’. I’ll say it again.”  Dangerously high temperatures predicted for Washington DC, have forced public testing sites to close there today. The Governor of Colorado told NBC News that “The national testing scene is a complete disgrace”. Over 100,000 in the U.S. have signed up to participate in vaccine trials.  India recorded their largest daily increase in cases with 40, 425. The Bahama’s will ban flights and commercial cruises from the U.S. beginning Wednesday. Other visitors to the islands will need to show proof of a negative test within the last 10 days. Hong Kong will require masks inside all indoor public spaces and non-essential government employees are to work from home. The UK has secured an additional 90 million doses of potential COVID-19 vaccines by partnering with BioNtech/Pfizer and Valneva. This is in addition to their partnership with University of Oxford/AstraZeneca. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411 with a special episode to tell you about a new podcast, Vaccine 4 1 1. It keeps you up to date on the race for a COVID-19 vaccine. Topics this week included: Could a decoy be the answer? And how the nearly 4 decade search for an HIV vaccine may lead to a faster COVID-19 vaccine.  To listen to the show, just search for Vaccine 4-1-1 in Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. You can get new episodes of Vaccine 4-1-1 every Tuesday and Thursday. Now here’s a sample of Vaccine 4-1-1. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday July 16th, 2020. Alabama has mandated masks be worn, when social distancing is not possible. Montana will require them in counties with 4 or more cases. Walmart, Kohl’s and Kroger will require masks be worn in their stores nationwide. Oklahoma set a new daily case record Wednesday with 1,075 reported. The Governor of Oklahoma has tested positive for the virus, he is experiencing mild symptoms and will work from home. At least 136 service members stationed on a base in Okinawa, Japan have tested positive. It is one of the largest outbreaks in the military. Virginia will implement statewide workplace safety standards, including notifying all employees within 24 hours if a co-worker tests positive. The Governor of Connecticut has asked the National Guard to remain in the state through the end of the year to help with the pandemic. Pasadena California has cancelled the 2021 Rose Parade. New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art will reopen at the end of August. Two recent studies have found that blood type does not play a role in contracting the virus or the severity of a case. South Africa has passed 300,000 cases. In the Philippines, police accompanied by health care workers, have been given the authority to search homes for infected people. 8 World Leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau, wrote an Op Ed in The Washington Post, calling for equal access across the world for a vaccine. Stating, “Where you live should not determine whether you live, and global solidarity is central to saving lives and protecting the economy”.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday July 15th, 2020. The Director of the CDC said he believes “the fall and the winter of 2020 and 2021 are going to be the probably one of the most difficult times that we experienced in American public health”. He also said he feels like the virus could be “under control” within two months if everyone wore a mask. The New York Times reports that the Trump Administration has directed hospitals to bypass the CDC and send all coronavirus patient information to the Health and Human Services database in Washington. The move concerns public health officials, who fear the data may be “distorted for political gain”. The land border between Mexico and The U.S. will remain closed to non-essential travel through August 21st. The U.S./Canada border is expected to remain closed as well. The Mayor of Philadelphia will not allow large public events until the end of February 2021. Moderna will move to Phase III clinical trials with their vaccine candidate on July 27th, working with 30,000 people. Results from Phase III are expected in October. Caracas, Venezuela resumed full lockdown as of this morning. In Colombia, Bogota and Medellin will also resume city wide lockdowns. Tehran, Iran has reentered lockdown for at least a week. Tokyo, Japan returned to the highest threat level warning for Coronavirus, after new cases were over 300 for the past few days. Russia will lift a mandatory 2-week quarantine for arriving visitors, but they must take a COVID-19 test either 3 days prior to or after their arrival. Queen Elizabeth will Knight the 100-year-old war veteran who raised 40 million pounds for the National Health Service earlier this year. Tom Moore walked laps of his garden with his walker to raise the funds. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday July 14th, 2020. The world added more than 1 million cases of COVID-19 in 5 days, from July 6th-10th relays CNN. The global number of cases is 13, 127,006.  The Director General of the WHO said there would be “no return to the old normal for the foreseeable future”. California shuts down indoor dining, movie theaters and bars. Oregon mandates masks and limits gatherings of more than 10. LA, San Diego and Atlanta keep school online for the start of the fall semester. Hawaii will continue a 2-week mandatory quarantine for visitors through September 1st. The Chicago marathon in October, has been cancelled as the U.S. reports 61,492 cases Monday. Bihar, in northern India, will institute a 2-week lockdown starting Thursday. It will affect about 125 million residents, reports The Guardian. Bangalore began a week long lockdown today, for its 13 million residents. Face masks will be mandatory in stores in the UK starting on July 24th. France will also mandate masks in enclosed public spaces in the next few weeks. The French Government has set aside nearly 9 billion dollars to give health care workers a raise. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday July 13th, 2020. The World saw the largest number of COVID-19 cases reported on Sunday with 230,370. The U.S. contributed 57,789 with Florida bringing 15,299, a record for any state since the pandemic began. Florida does not have a public mask mandate. Louisiana announced a mask mandate effective today.   Florida and Louisiana are 2 of the 35 states up in case count week over week.  A U.S. Marine base in Okinawa, Japan is on virtual lockdown after nearly 100 cases were reported on base. According to research published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, 1 in 3 young adults is at risk for severe COVID-19. That risk increases if they have used cigarettes or e-cigarettes in the last 30 days. For the first time in 4 months, New York City reported no COVID-19 related deaths. India set a new record for daily cases with 28,701. There are more than 870,000 cases in India. Mexico has passed Italy with number of fatalities due to the virus. 35,006 Mexican residents have succumbed to COVID-19. Lockdown will resume in Manilla, effecting about 250,000 people.  South Africa reinstated a daily curfew from 9PM to 4AM, they have also banned alcohol sales. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411 with a special episode to tell you about a new podcast, Vaccine 4 1 1. It keeps you up to date on the race for a COVID-19 vaccine. Topics this week included:  The U.S. drug maker leading the vaccine race...without a vaccine and what is Herd Immunity anyway?  To listen to the show, just search for Vaccine 4-1-1 in Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. You can get new episodes of Vaccine 4-1-1 every Tuesday and Thursday. Now here’s a sample of Vaccine 4-1-1. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday July 10th, 2020. Another record day for cases in the U.S. with 59,886 reported. Single day records set in: Alabama, Idaho, Missouri, Montana, Oregon and Texas. Mississippi’s Health Officer said “Mississippi hospitals cannot take care of Mississippi patients” in reference to the state’s lack of available ICU beds. Florida’s Miami/Dade County reported a 33.5% virus positivity rate Thursday, their goal is to stay under 10%.  Nevada will shut down bars in counties with rising cases. Las Vegas and Reno will be included. Kentucky will require face masks to be worn in public settings and indoor businesses when social distancing is not practical. New York City extended the ban on large public gatherings through the end of September. Hong Kong will close schools and reimpose social distancing, as officials are now concerned about a “third wave”. Italy is considering extending their “state of emergency” allowing the government to take certain restrictive measures to curb the spread of the virus. Victoria, Australia recorded 288 cases Thursday. The highest for any Australian state since the pandemic began. India and Mexico set new records for daily cases. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday July 9th, 2020. The U.S. has crossed the 3 million mark, with another record setting day of new cases. 59,453 were reported yesterday, according to the New York Times. Led by California with 11,694 and Texas with 9,979. Missouri, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and West Virginia all set single day records. More than 24 states have halted or rolled back reopening plans. PPE is once again in short supply. Coronavirus Task Force Member Dr. Fauci, told the Wall Street Journal, “Any state that is having a serious problem, that state should seriously look at shutting down”. In Missouri 82 campers and counselors have tested positive, the largest cluster attached to a summer camp. Cases in Tulsa, Oklahoma are on the rise. The city’s health director said they are “more than likely” connected to The President’s rally and protests of the rally that took place last month.   1.3 million workers filed first time unemployment claims last week. In Orlando, Florida, Disney World plans to move ahead with Saturday’s reopening. The Director General of The World Health Organization said yesterday that the true enemy isn’t the virus, “but the lack of leadership and solidarity at the global level”.  Tokyo, Japan reported their largest daily increase in cases today with 224. Dubai will give arriving passengers free COVID-19 tests at the airport with results within 6 to 24 hours, reports The Washington Post. Mainland China recorded their 9th consecutive day with new case numbers in the single digits. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday July 8th, 2020. The U.S. is on the verge of 3 million COVID-19 cases, with 54,160 reported yesterday, according to the New York Times. California, Hawaii, Missouri, Montana, Oklahoma and Texas set new single day records.  Florida, Texas and Arizona continue to struggle with high hospitalizations and dwindling ICU beds. Despite the continued rise in cases, The President urged Governor’s to reopen schools in the fall, stating “We’re very much going to put pressure on governors and everybody else to open the schools, to get them open”. The National Education Association, National Parent Teacher Association and American Federation of Teachers issued a joint statement noting, “we could be putting students, their families and educators in danger”. Coronavirus Task Force Member Dr. Fauci, said he is strongly in favor of local mask mandates. A number of movie theater chains have filed a lawsuit against The Governor of New Jersey for not letting them reopen. The Trump Administration gave formal notice of withdrawal from World Health Organization, with complete separation in July of 2021. After months of downplaying the virus, The President of Brazil has tested positive for COVID-19. Protesters in Serbia surrounded the Parliament building to protest new lockdown measures. The World Health Organization acknowledged emerging evidence of airborne transmission of COVID-19. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday July 7th, 2020. Coronavirus Task Force Member Dr. Fauci, says we are “still knee deep in the first wave” and “we never came back to baseline and now are surging back up”. There have been nearly 300,000 cases recorded in the first week of July. Arizona crossed 100,000 cases.   Despite a rise in cases, Florida has mandated that schools reopen for in person classes in the Fall. A number of members of the California State Assembly tested positive for COVID-19. They have adjourned until further notice. The Mayor of Atlanta, her husband and one of her children have tested positive. Virginia reported zero virus related deaths yesterday for the first time in over 3 months. New data released on the coronavirus small business relief funds shows that a considerable share of the money went to chains owned by large investment firms, reports The Washington Post. Maryland based Novavax, received a 1.6-billion-dollar contract as a part of “Operation Warp Speed” for development and for the U.S. to secure 100 million doses of the as yet unproven vaccine is in Phase I clinical trials. New Jersey based Regeneron, announced they will begin Phase 2/3 clinical trials for their vaccine described as a “double antibody cocktail” to both treat and prevent infection. The trials will work with nearly 150 sites in the U.S., Brazil, Chile and Mexico. Initial data is expected in late summer. The entire city of Melbourne in Victoria, Australia is back under a 6-week lockdown, effecting nearly 5 million people. Previously, the lockdown only applied to specific neighborhoods and buildings. Iran has mandated face masks to be worn in public.  Hong Kong will require airline crew members to take a COVID-19 test when they arrive. Vietnam's final COVID-19 ICU patient was released, the country has no recorded deaths from the virus. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday July 6th, 2020. California recorded the largest one-day total yet in the U.S. with 11,786 new cases reported Sunday. Arizona, California, Nevada, South Carolina and Texas reported a record number of hospitalizations due to COVID-19. The Mayor of Austin, Texas told CNN, “If we don’t change this trajectory, then I am within two weeks of having our hospitals overrun”. The Mayor of Houston also noted the hospital system there was close to being overwhelmed. For the third time in a week, Florida reported more than 10,000 cases on Sunday. The Mayor of Phoenix, said her request to set up community-based testing was rejected.  112 students living in a fraternity house at the University of Washington have tested positive for the virus. The school has set up a pop-up testing site. Scientists from around the world are urging the World Health Organization to address airborne transmission of the virus, reports The Washington Post. India has recorded more cases than Russia and now has the third highest total in the world, behind the U.S. and Brazil. Around 270,000 in northeast and northwest Spain will re-enter lockdown. Australia will close the border between New South Wales and Victoria. Over 3,000 people in nine public housing complexes in Melbourne, Victoria have been placed under strict lockdown for 5 days.  The Louvre in Paris opened today after four months. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday July 3rd, 2020. 55,595 another record-breaking day for new cases in the United States. Florida crossed over 10,000 new cases, setting another daily record. Miami/Dade County announced a curfew from 10PM to sunrise until further notice. The Governor of Texas mandated face coverings for any county that has more than 20 active cases, as numbers there continue to rise. Pennsylvania will require those coming in from hot spot states to quarantine for 14 days, as will the city of Chicago, reports The Washington Post. Puerto Rico will require visitors to provide a negative COVID-19 test result within 72 hours of arrival, beginning July 15th. The Mayor of New York City said school’s there will reopen in the fall. The FDA has granted emergency use authorization for a test that can diagnose both the flu and COVID-19. Three of the countries with the highest case counts and deaths, the U.S., Brazil and India, never properly shutdown or began reopening too soon, reports CNN. The President of Honduras was released from the hospital yesterday. He was in for almost two weeks due to the virus. Pubs in Britain will reopen Saturday, the Prime Minister has cautioned patrons not to “overdo it”. Like other newly re-opened business in the UK, they will need to keep a 21-day record of customers reports The New York Times. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday July 2nd, 2020. Another record setting day for new COVID-19 cases in the U.S. as 49,932 were reported, notes The New York Times. Arizona, California, Georgia, North Carolina and Texas also had record days. More than 800,000 cases were reported in the U.S. in the month of June. ICU’s in Arizona are nearing 90% capacity according to The Washington Post. Vice President Pence visited the state yesterday and said the government would send 500 medical workers to help with the onslaught of patients. California will shutdown indoor dining, movie theaters and other indoor operations in 19 counties. New York City will postpone the reopening of indoor dining. At least 23 states have put a hold on reopening plans. Oklahoma voted to expand Medicaid, making about 250,000 additional residents eligible for public insurance. Including those who lost coverage when they lost their job due to COVID-19 layoffs. The FDA Commissioner told ABC News, "We are on target to reach a vaccine by year's end or early next year”. US based Pfizer and German based BioNTech published data yesterday that Phase I trials of their vaccine candidate have proven safe and produce a higher immune response in subjects than patients that have recovered from the virus. Pending approval, they will move to Phase III with 30,000 subjects by the end of July. Israel and Palestine have recorded record levels of cases this week. Lockdowns have been reinstated in areas with high case counts. Mexico reported 741 deaths yesterday, bringing their total to 28,510 lives lost to the virus. They pass Spain and now have the 6th highest number of COVID-19 related fatalities in the world. The UK has lifted a travel ban on more than 90 countries starting Monday. Residents will no longer need to quarantine for 14 days upon return.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday July 1st, 2020.   Coronavirus Task Force Member Dr. Fauci, told a Senate Committee, that the country is going in the wrong direction with the fight against coronavirus. And if things don’t change, we could see 100,000 cases a day. New records were set in Alaska, Arizona, Idaho, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Texas.   New cases in the U.S. rose 80% in the last 2 weeks, according to The New York Times.   Colorado joined Texas, Florida and Arizona in closing bars. Virginia has delayed the reopening of bars there. The Senate agreed to extend the Paycheck Protection Program for small businesses. It will now move to The House. Goldman Sachs said a nationwide mask mandate, would help the country avoid further shutdowns and could prevent an almost 5% drop in GDP. 300,000 in the suburbs of Melbourne, Australia re-entered lock down. 370 active cases have been reported in the area. The EU will open borders to travelers from 14 countries that are deemed to have COVID-19 under control. The US, Brazil and Russia have not met the criteria. The UN Security Council is expected to adopt a resolution for all countries to “adopt a halt in hostilities to focus on COVID-19” reports CNN. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday June 30th, 2020.  "We all want this to be over. We all want to get on with our lives. But the hard reality is this is not even close to being over," noted the head of the World Health Organization yesterday, he continued "Although many countries have made some progress, globally the pandemic is actually speeding up”. There are 10, 415,035 global cases and the world has seen 509,474 deaths due to COVID-19. Growth continues across the U.S., with Florida, Texas and Arizona especially hard hit. Sixteen states have paused reopening plans. Oregon and Kansas have made face masks mandatory indoors when social distancing is not an option. Over 1,000 inmates in California’s San Quentin prison have tested positive for the virus. Five times higher than last week. Coronavirus Task Force Member, Dr. Birx, said she would like to work with mayors and governors to use some new testing techniques and test large populations at the community level. Dr’s Fauci, Redfield and others will testify in front of the Senate’s health and education committee today. Victoria, Australia will reinstate lockdowns in 10 Melbourne suburbs. Leicester, England has seen a surge in cases and will remain under restrictions as the rest of the country eases the lockdown.  The WHO is sending a team to China to investigate the origins of the virus. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday June 29th, 2020.   Globally, Sunday saw another record day with 189,077 new cases reported. While the U.S. crossed 2.5 million, 25% of the world’s more than 10 million. Cities across Florida will close beaches over the 4th of July weekend as the state reported more than 8500 cases on Sunday. Vice President Pence, speaking in Dallas, encouraged all Americans to wear a mask to stop the spread of the virus. The Governor of California order bars to close in a number of counties, including Los Angeles. Texas and Florida also closed bars. New York State reported 5 COVID-19 related deaths on Sunday, their lowest since March 15th. Coronavirus Task Force Member Dr. Fauci, expressed concerns that a vaccine would likely not help the U.S. achieve herd immunity if people refuse to get it. More than 400,000 in a county southwest of Beijing, China, have re-entered lockdown after 18 cases were linked to a market. Australia reported 75 cases in Victoria, their largest increase since early April. Japan reported their largest one-day increase since May 25th.  Three Indian states will expand lockdown measures through July 31st. Iran’s President said this has been the toughest year in the country’s history.  A report from the United Kingdom warns that COVID-19 patients who were hospitalized in the ICU, may develop PTSD. In the Frankfort Germany airport, there is now a walk-in coronavirus testing center. Results are sent within hours of the test, helpful if you are entering a country that requires a recent negative test, reports The Guardian. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411 with a special episode to tell you about a new podcast, Vaccine 4 1 1. It keeps you up to date on the race for a COVID-19 vaccine. Topics this week included: A childhood vaccine most of us had, might be the answer….and the challenge of finding high level viral transmissions at the right place and the right time to test a potential lifesaving vaccine. To listen to the show, just search for Vaccine 4-1-1 in Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. You can get new episodes of Vaccine 4-1-1 every Tuesday and Thursday.  Now here’s a sample of Vaccine 4-1-1.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday June 26th, 2020.   "Our best estimate right now is that for every case that’s reported, there actually are 10 other infections.” Those are the words of the head of the CDC who estimates there are more than 23 million cases of COVID-19 in the United States. He said social distancing is the “most powerful weapon” against the virus. It was another record setting day for cases in the U.S. with 39,327 reported. The Governor of Texas issued an executive order to suspend elective surgeries in 4 counties to allow for enough open hospital beds. He also paused the states continued reopening. Florida, Arizona and New Mexico also paused reopening plans. More than one million dead people received stimulus checks totaling nearly 1.4 billion dollars a government watchdog report revealed. Apple will temporarily close 14 stores in Florida and stores in Houston to guard against spreading the virus. The Chief Executive of Delta Airlines, said passengers refusing to wear a mask on board or follow other safety requirements, could be permanently banned. Connecticut officials said K-12 schools should plan to reopen in the fall. Massachusetts also plans to reopen.  Hospitalizations in New York dipped below 1,000 for the first time since March. A meat packing plant in England reported 165 COVID-19 cases. Spain has at least 40 outbreaks, the largest in Aragon with 250 cases. Despite a rising case count, Egypt will reopen Saturday after a three-month lockdown.  158 staff members of the Guatemalan President have tested positive. The President has tested negative. The French government will begin a campaign to test over one million in the Paris region. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday June 25th, 2020.   The U.S. reported 38,173 new cases yesterday, the most since the pandemic began. The numbers were driven by large increases in Texas 6,584, Florida 5,511, California 4,850, Arizona 1,810, Georgia 1,713, North Carolina 1,437 and South Carolina 1,284. With the continued rise in infection, many Governor’s who had initially resisted harsher restrictions are now implementing them. Nevada will require a face mask in all public places where social distancing cannot be observed. Washington state has also made masks mandatory. Utah will require masks in state run buildings, including liquor stores and allow local governments to implement stricter measures. The Governor of Texas is encouraging residents to stay home and relayed the state is “looking at greater restrictions”. Over 1.4 million first time unemployment claims were filed last week. New York, New Jersey and Connecticut will require people arriving from states where the virus is on the rise, to quarantine for 14 days upon entry. The New York City Marathon, scheduled for November, has been canceled. Disneyland, in California, has indefinitely delayed their July 17th reopening. Hawaii will ease their mandatory 14-day quarantine starting August 1st, as long as visitors test negative for the virus within 72 hours of their arrival. A senior Afghan official relayed there is a suspected 60 to 90% infection rate among the Afghanistan security forces, reports The Washington Post. More than 100,000 residents of Victoria Australia will undergo testing, as health workers go door to door. Cases in Victoria make up the majority of the countries 270 active infections.   Canada will allow travel among the 4 Atlantic Provinces without quarantine, starting July 3rd.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday June 24th, 2020.   Cases across the U.S. continue to rise. Seven states reported new record daily cases: Arizona, Arkansas, California, North Carolina, Texas, Tennessee and South Carolina. South Carolina has 26,513 confirmed cases and 673 deaths. They hit their record high on June 20th with 1,155.  Cases have declined slightly over the last few days, with 912 reported yesterday. The state has seen rapid growth through the month of June. Prior to May 29th, the state was rarely over 200 cases a day. Greenville County has been the hardest hit, with 3,827, with 2,269 of those cases reported since June 1st. Just yesterday, the Greenville city council voted to require masks to be worn in a number of businesses. Unlike other hotspots where growth can be traced to a major outbreak at a large facility like a prison, factory or nursing home, nothing like that has yet been found in Greenville.  Testifying before a House Committee yesterday, Coronavirus Task Force Member Dr. Fauci, relayed his concerns about the continued surge of infection rate in the U.S. Also, that the country will be doing more testing and that he is cautiously optimistic that we will have a vaccine by the end of the year or early 2021. As cases skyrocket in Houston, adults have been admitted to Texas Children’s Hospital, reports The Washington Post. The Governor of Texas told Texans, the safest place for them was in their homes. Players and owners have come to an agreement and Major League Baseball will start a 60-game season at the end of July. The European Union is working through guidelines for borders to re-open July 1st. Countries that have or continue to struggle with severe virus outbreaks, including the U.S., may be barred from travel to Europe. Australia reported their first COVID-19 related death in a month. China announced that it has conducted more than 90 million tests since the pandemic began. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday June 23rd, 2020.   The FDA has issued a warning for hand sanitizers made by Eskbiochem SA, that contain a toxic chemical. Brand names for the sanitizer include: All Clean, Esk Biochem, CleanCare, Lavar 70, The Good Gel and Saniderm. The sanitizers contain methanol, that can be toxic when absorbed through the skin, or ingested.Coronavirus Task Force Member, Dr. Fauci, will testify in front of Congress today, regarding the government’s response to COVID-19. President Trump signed an Executive Order Monday, suspending a number of temporary work Visas through the end of the year. Stating, the restrictions will ease the economic impact of the virus. Los Angeles International Airport will test the use of thermal cameras. Taking the temperature of those passing through the terminal entrance. The Executive Director of the WHO’s health emergencies program, stated that increased testing is not driving case growth throughout the world. Noting that hospital admissions and deaths are also rising. In India, people are being turned away from hospitals and dying in the streets and backs of ambulances.  As cases in the country continue to rise, reports The New York Times. Saudi Arabia announced the annual pilgrimage to Mecca will be limited to Saudi Pilgrims and those from countries inside the kingdom, in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19. England will reopen restaurants, pubs, salons and museums on July 4th. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday June 22nd, 2020.   The World Health Organization noted there were 183,020 new cases reported on Sunday, the highest global daily number yet. The previous record was set on June 18th with 181,232. The numbers are driven by new cases throughout The America’s. New cases reported Sunday morning show Brazil adding 54,771 and the U.S. 36,617. There are 8,975,776 cases worldwide, more than 3.3 million of them come from 2 countries. The U.S. has 2,280,969 cases for over 331 million residents, Brazil 1,083,341 for over 212 million. There have been 468,724 deaths due to the virus worldwide, with the U.S. and Brazil owning more than 1/3 of them. Despite being ranked 3rd and 6th in population, these two countries have a much higher percentage of infection and death than others. China, the most populous country has 84,573 cases and 4,639 deaths for their over 1.4 billion residents and India 425,282 cases and 13,699 deaths for their over 1.3 billion residents.23 states are reporting an increase in number of cases. On Saturday, President Trump indicated the rise in numbers was due to increased testing, then remarked he had told his staff to slow down testing. Health experts strongly disagree, noting that with more aggressive testing, the percent positive would decrease or at the very least remain steady. Officials in California are reexamining deaths due to unexplained respiratory failure or inflammatory conditions dating back to November of 2019 to see if they may have been virus related, reports The Los Angeles Times. California has passed New Jersey in number of confirmed cases. 37 U.S. Service Members on a base in Guam have tested positive. Germany reported an upswing in cases, with more than 1300 tied to a meat packing plant. South Korea says it is enduring a second wave of COVID-19. If the numbers continue to increase, they will reinstate social distancing measures. Dubai will reopen July 7th, to tourists who test negative.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411 with a special episode to tell you about a new podcast that keeps you up to date on the for a COVID-19 vaccine. Just this week, we learned that cows could be the answer or we may have solved the problem with a vaccine created 100 years ago. To listen to the show, just search for Vaccine 4-1-1 in Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. You can get new episodes of Vaccine 4-1-1 every Tuesday and Thursday.  Now here’s a sample of Vaccine 4-1-1.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday June 19th, 2020.   California has issued a statewide requirement that masks must be worn in indoor public spaces. The Sherriff of Orange County says he won’t enforce the mandate. In Nebraska, The Governor has threatened to withhold funding from communities that require masks in official buildings, reports The Washington Post. On Wednesday, American Airlines removed a passenger from a flight for refusal to wear a mask. The CDC and WHO both recommend masks, frequent hand washing and social distancing to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. In Springfield Missouri in late May, two hairstylists had symptoms of the virus, but continued to work for over a week and saw up to 140 clients. The stylists and the clients all wore masks. The stylists eventually tested positive, none of the 140 clients did. A report in the New England Journal of Medicine, suggests that blood type could play a role in the severity of the COVID-19 illness, with Type A blood more likely to have a severe reaction and Type O, less likely. More research will be conducted. The Director of the Harvard Global Health Institute warns that unless there are policy changes, the growing number cases in the U.S. could get much bigger, relays CNN. Mississippi reported 381 new cases yesterday, a number of which were tied to fraternity rush parties in Oxford. The Yemen Director of the International Rescue Committee, has raised an alarm about conditions in the country stating “We can't even say how many people have it, because Yemen's health system has effectively collapsed, and the country has extremely limited testing capacity”. Mexico reported its largest daily increase in cases with over 5,000. Citing a steady decrease in cases, The United Kingdom has lowered their COVID-19 alert from 4 to 3. Meaning the virus remains in general circulation. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday June 18th, 2020.   New modeling from PolicyLab, at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, shows Florida has the potential to become the next epicenter for COVID-19 in the U.S. According to The Washington Post, Researchers say the risk of widespread community transmission is “the worst it has ever been”. The Director of the division of infectious diseases at the University of Alabama, said the spike in Florida is concerning due to the state’s aging population and number of nursing homes and retirement communities. There are 82,711 confirmed cases and have been 3,017 deaths. Three of the highest daily case counts have been reported in the last 5 days. Transparency in data released by the state health department has been questioned.  In late April, the State Medical Examiner’s report noted a higher death rate than what the health department was releasing.  The health department, stopped the release of the Medical Examiners report. In May, the doctor who created and updated Florida’s official coronavirus dashboard, was fired for what she says was refusal to manipulate the data. The Governor of Arizona authorized local governments to require masks. Prior to this, local governments were not allowed to mandate anything more stringent than what the state dictated. New York City and Washington DC will enter Phase II of reopening on Monday. Over 1.5 million Americans filed for first time unemployment benefits last week. Treasury Secretary Mnuchin, said the Trump administration is “very seriously considering” another round of stimulus checks.  Chile will reinstate some restrictions as cases spike after a backlog of 31,000 cases were discovered. The President of Honduras was hospitalized for pneumonia Wednesday night. Earlier in the day he reported he had tested positive, with mild symptoms.  The Eifel Tower in Paris will reopen next week….but the elevator won’t. Visitors who want to enjoy the view, will need to use the stairs. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday June 17th, 2020.   Dexamethasone, was proven in British clinical trials to reduce the risk of death in COVID-19 patients with severe lung damage. The steroid is currently on the market and widely available. CureVac, a German Pharmaceutical company, has received the green light to begin human trials for their vaccine candidate. This is the 11th potential vaccine to enter clinical trials worldwide. Earlier this week, the German Government purchased 23% of CureVac. A South Dakota company is working on a COVID-19 antibody treatment that comes from cow plasma. The CEO of SAB Biotherapeutics told CNN, the genetically engineered cows are producing antibodies that kill the virus in the lab. They expect to start human trials in July. Record daily cases were reported yesterday in Florida, Arizona, Texas, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon and South Carolina. The U.S. will extended land border restrictions with Mexico and Canada through July 21st. An Oklahoma judge denied an emergency motion to halt President Trump’s campaign rally, set for Saturday in Tulsa. Some lower risk inmates in California with less than 180 days left on their sentence will be released starting July 1st to lower the risk of exposure to COVID-19. China is limiting travel in and out of Beijing, after a new cluster of cases was to discovered. Schools and public attractions have been closed and there are temperature checks in neighborhoods around the city center reports The Washington Post. Over 300 households in Berlin, Germany have been put in to quarantine, as 57 new cases were discovered in the city. The President of Honduras and his wife have tested positive for COVID-19. He said he has only mild symptoms and will stay on the job. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday June 16th, 2020.   For the fourth day in a row, Texas reported a record number of hospitalizations for coronavirus, with 2,287. There are 91,727 confirmed cases in the state with 2,018 deaths. Texas has reported over 1,000 cases a day for the last 8 days. The highest was 2,500 on June 10th. The majority of cases are in and around Houston and Dallas. Houston officials have cautioned that if numbers continue to rise, the city may have to shutdown once again. On May 20th, The Washington Post ran an article noting that Dallas, Houston, Alabama and parts of Florida could see a second wave over the next month due to rapid reopening. The model cited was by PolicyLab at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Nearly one month later, Texas, Florida and Alabama have some of the steepest increases in the U.S. The FDA pulled its emergency authorization for Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine as a treatment for COVID-19. A CDC report notes that COVID-19 patients with underlying health conditions like heart disease and diabetes were 12 times more likely to die due of the virus. US Airlines will strictly enforce wearing a mask on board. Those who refuse, could be banned. The US Open Tennis Tournament relayed they hope to stay on schedule opening August 31st in New York. There will be no spectators. The World Health Organization noted that there have been more than 100,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported each day for the last two weeks. When the pandemic began, it took nearly two months to reach the 100,000 mark. After 3 weeks with no new cases, New Zealand has reported 2. The cases were from two women who recently entered the country from the UK to visit a dying relative. Greece will reopen to international tourists on Monday. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday June 15th, 2020.   The Director of the Tulsa Health Department told The Tulsa World that he is “concerned about our ability to protect anyone who attends a large, indoor event” and that he is also “concerned about our ability to ensure The President stays safe as well” in relation to The President’s plan to hold a campaign rally at the 19,000 seat BOK center in Tulsa on Saturday. Oklahoma is 1 of 23 states where cases are on the rise. The state has 8,231 with 359 deaths. Friday with 222 cases reported and Saturday with 225 were the two highest case count days so far. Oklahoma City and Tulsa have reported the most cases with over 1500 each. If you look at cases per 100,000 residents, Texas County Oklahoma, in the panhandle, over indexes the rest of the state with 4,616. Guymon, the county seat and home to Seaboard pork processing plant, was hit hard in mid-May, with 654 cases tied to the plant. Recently, Tulsa, McCurtain, Payne, Mayes and Custer counties have seen faster rates of growth. COVID-19 cases continue to rise in a number of states including South Carolina and Alabama, both saw a record number of new cases on Sunday. Officials in Houston, have warned of a potential new lockdown as cases are on the rise there, reports CBS News. Beijing, China has reported a new cluster of cases that is reported to have started in the largest market in the city. They plan on testing more than 200,000 people who work in or have visited the market. Saudi Arabia recorded more than 4,000 cases Sunday. A record daily high. Thailand marked 21 days since the last local transmission of COVID-19 and lifted the nationwide curfew. Germany has lifted travel warnings for 27 countries in Europe. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday June 12th, 2020.   Utah researchers have been studying whether sewage can alert health officials to an increase in cases, reports The Washington Post. Prior to a sudden surge in Cache County Utah, where 287 cases were detected at a meat packing plant, scientists found an increase in the virus in the wastewater. Researchers are hopeful that a community’s sewage, may provide a more accurate reading of the overall infection rate. Utah has 13,366 cases and 131 deaths. Cases peaked June 5th, with 522 new cases reported. Cache County, where the meatpacking plant with the recent cluster is, has 913 (287 tied to the plant). More than half of the state’s cases are in and around Salt Lake City. Oregon has implemented a “one week pause” in reopening according to The Governor. Puerto Rico will lift the majority of their restrictions next week. People signing up to attend a Trump campaign rally in Tulsa Oklahoma, are being met with a disclaimer, that they will not hold the campaign or venue liable if they are exposed to COVID-19.  India reported nearly 10,000 cases yesterday, putting them as the 4th highest case count in the world behind the U.S, Brazil and Russia. The Prosecutor in Bergamo, Lombardy has launched an investigation in to the Italian Government’s handling of the virus in the region. With less than 40 COVID-19 cases reported last week, Australian Officials say the country has all but eliminated the virus. Almost all restrictions will be lifted in July. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday June 11th, 2020.   The U.S. has reported more than 2 million cases of COVID-19, globally, there are over 7.4 million cases. The global race for a vaccine continues.  Coronavirus Task Force Member Dr. Fauci, told CNN the U.S. Government will help fund three Phase III vaccine studies: Moderna, Johnson and Johnson and Oxford University/AstraZeneca. Good news from Johnson and Johnson. They are ahead of schedule and will begin Phase I early stage human trials on their vaccine in late July as opposed to September. If the vaccine is a success, they intend to have 600 to 900 million doses available by April 2021. The vaccine candidate from Oxford University/AstraZeneca is gearing up for Phase III, adding 10,000 participants in the UK, 30,000 in the U.S. and 2,000 in Brazil to monitor how well the vaccine works on the larger sample. Results are expected in August. If all goes well, there could be a vaccine by September. 1.5 million Americans filed for first time unemployment benefits last week. The Governor of Maine has renewed their “state of emergency” for an additional 30 days. The University of Washington has updated their model to project deaths from the virus stabilizing in June and July, then increasing again in the Fall, with nearly 170,000 by October 1st.  In late May, two hairstylists in Springfield, Missouri, saw 140 clients, while they had the virus. The stylists and the clients wore masks, as of today, none of the 140 clients became infected. Pro Golf returns today, with the first round of the Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort Worth, Texas. Disneyland in California will begin a phased reopening on July 17th.The European Union has called out Russia and China for “making a concerted effort to spread disinformation” about COVID-19, reports The Washington Post. Russia has more than half a million positive diagnoses. Mumbai, India has surpassed 50,000 confirmed cases. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday June 10th, 2020.   The State Health Director of Arizona, told hospitals to “fully activate” their emergency plans, as cases and hospitalizations there continue to rise. Arizona’s largest medical group announced that ICU’s are nearing capacity and patients needing ventilators have quadrupled in the last month. According to azcentral.com, the percentage of positive tests was 5% a month ago and was 12% last week. The Governor is attributing the rise to increased testing, state health experts disagree. Citing an increase in hospitalizations and noting that while testing has increased 100%, cases have increased by 108%. Arizona has 28,386 confirmed cases and 1.074 deaths. More than 50% of the state’s cases are in and around the Phoenix area. However, Yuma, Santa Cruz and La Paz counties are seeing faster rates of growth. Members of the DC National Guard, who had a presence at the protests in Washington, have tested positive for COVID-19. The Guard did not say how many, citing security reasons. The U.S. will reopen the consulate in Wuhan, China later this month. The World Health Organization sought to clarify remarks about asymptomatic transmission being rare, by stating “There is still too much unknown about this virus and still too much unknown about its transmission dynamics”. A study from the United Kingdom relays that if everyone would wear a mask in public, it could be enough to avoid a second wave of the virus and lockdowns, reports The Washington Post. In Brazil, the Supreme Court has ordered The President to resume releasing key COVID-19 information. The Administration had ceased doing so last week. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday June 9th, 2020.   Executive or emergency orders in nearly 20 states afford nursing homes large scale immunity from lawsuits during the COVID-19 pandemic, reports The Washington Post.  Many of The Governors who called for the orders say they did it to protect frontline healthcare heroes like doctors, nurses and support staff. But in some states, like Connecticut, the orders also protect nursing homes and long-term care facilities from having to divulge information about a patients last few days. Adding to the challenges faced by care facilities and families, routine inspections have diminished and visitors are kept at a distance to protect the residents. According to The New York Times, more than 233,000 residents and employees in over 9,800 nursing homes and long-term care facilities have been infected. Over 44,000 of them have died, meaning nearly 40% of all COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. can be traced to these facilities. Over the last 7 days, 14 states and Puerto Rico have reported their highest weekly average of COVID-19 cases. States include:  Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Utah. Yosemite National Park reopens Thursday, they will limit the number of visitors and reservations are required. On Monday, a scientist from the World Health Organization, said COVID-19 was unlikely to be spread by people with asymptomatic cases.  Many medical professionals and health experts strongly disagree with the statement. Moscow greatly reduced lockdown restrictions yesterday and plan to almost fully reopen the city by June 23rd.  They city reported over 1500 new cases yesterday.  The U.N. General Assembly will not hold their yearly meeting in person for the first time in 75 years. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday June 8th, 2020.  Two studies published today in the medical journal “Nature” relay that lockdowns throughout the world may have saved millions of lives. One of the studies from U.C. Berkley says that the shutdowns may have prevented 285 million infections in China and 60 million in the U.S. New York City, one of the hardest hit cities in the world, will begin Phase 1 of reopening today. With subway service getting back to normal and construction, manufacturing and retail employees returning to work. New York City has had 211,728 cases and 21,323 deaths. The news has been positive lately with the city reporting an aggressive drop in the number of new daily infections. There were 777 new cases reported yesterday, at its peak on April 4th, the city reported 12,312 new cases. There is some concern that the recent protests may cause an increase in cases. The city is offering free testing to all residents and has hired contact tracers to contain virus growth. COVID-19 cases in the U.S. are creeping toward 2 million. Arizona’s largest health care system said that intensive care units are full.  The state has seen record daily new cases over the last week. The President of Brazil is limiting the information released to the public, as cases continue to rise there. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have crossed over 100,000 cases. Starting today, international passengers arriving in the United Kingdom, will have to quarantine for 14 days. New Zealand has removed all restrictions and fully reopened. Though international borders remain shut. They are the first industrialized nation to emerge from the pandemic, reports The Washington Post.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday June 5th, 2020.   A Tennessee judge ruled that all registered voters will be allowed to vote by mail. Prior to the ruling, Tennessee voters, needed to provide a reason they were unable to vote in person. Fear of exposure to COVID-19 was not an accepted reason. An appeal is expected to be filed, reports The Tennessean.  Cases are on the upswing in Tennessee. The state has 25,374 confirmed cases, 372 per 100,000 residents. Trousdale County, has 1,394 cases among the 7,800 residents. 14,562 per 100,000, the highest in the country.  Lake County Tennessee is second highest nationwide with 10,550 per 100,000. Three prisons in Tennessee have been tied to cluster outbreaks. The aforementioned Trousdale Turner Correctional Center with 1,315 of the counties 1,394 cases. Northwest Correctional in Tipton, Tennessee with 640 and Bledsoe County Correctional in Pikeville with 617.Federal Health Officials will require labs to report demographic information when they report COVID-19 test results starting August 1st. The Director of the CDC testified that up to 100,000 contact tracers will be needed by September. He also said, the CDC continues to work with the World Health Organization, in spite of The President’s announcement that he was terminating the relationship. The NBA Board of Governors voted to restart the season, the plan now goes to the players union for approval. If it passes the season will resume on July 31st. In Guadalajara, Mexico, protests broke out over the death of a man who was detained by police for allegedly not wearing a face mask. The man died in custody, relays The Washington Post. Mexico recorded more than 4400 cases of COVID-19 yesterday, their highest daily total. England will require a face covering for anyone using public transportation, beginning June 15th.  The Prime Minister of Fiji said the nation is COVID-19 free, they have not had a new case in 45 days. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday June 4th, 2020.  Pennsylvania schools can reopen July 1st, with strategies for safe operation. The states stay at home order will expire tonight at midnight.  With 77,871 confirmed cases and 5,742 deaths, Pennsylvania has the 6th highest case count in the United States. There are 608 cases per 100,000. Since May 1st, the numbers in the state have been declining. A look at Pennsylvania’s two largest cities, shows a wildly different experience with the virus. Prior to the lockdown, Pittsburgh was experiencing a flu outbreak and had 40% of cases in the state, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. With COVID-19, the majority of cases hit in and around the Philadelphia area, with Pittsburgh showing relatively low infection.   Pittsburgh has 1,952, the city’s highest daily case count was 204 on April 18th, on June 2nd they reported 14. In contrast, Philadelphia has 23,160, the highest daily case count was on April 30th with 1,749 (only 203 less than all of the cases in Pittsburgh). On June 2nd Philadelphia reported 463 new cases.  Both cities “stay at home order” went in to effect March 23rd. Pittsburgh peaked nearly two weeks earlier and with a much lower number than Philadelphia.  Pittsburgh began to lift restrictions May 15th. Philadelphia will do so tonight at midnight.1.9 million Americans filed for first time unemployment benefits last week, the lowest since March. In an effort to assist small businesses, The Senate approved a bill relaxing the terms of the Paycheck Protection Plan. Delta airlines will test all 90,000 employees for COVID-19 antibodies. NBA team owners will vote today on a plan to restart the season. Cases in Pakistan continue to rise. They have passed China and now have the 17th highest case count in the world. Japan is considering ways to “simplify” the Olympics in 2021, with smaller crowds and mandatory testing. Spain will open borders with France and Portugal on June 22nd. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday June 3rd, 2020.  Coronavirus task force member, Dr. Fauci, said the U.S. should have one hundred million doses of a potential COVID-19 vaccine by the end of the year.   Last week, the trial began enrolling 600 candidates for Phase 2, reports Forbes. The potential vaccine, should go in to phase 3 trials in July, involving about 30,000 people between 18 and 55. Candidates will be primarily from the U.S., but some international people will be included. The potential vaccine is from Moderna, working in partnership with the U.S. government who has agreed to fund production of the vaccine whether or not it’s successful. Dr. Fauci expects 100 million doses to be ready around November/December, about the time we will know if the vaccine works. By early 2021, he believes “a couple hundred million” will be available. Brian Miller was confirmed as the new Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery. He will oversee 500 billion in recovery relief funds. Miller has been a White House lawyer since 2018, working with the General Services Administration. More than 60 passengers from the Grand Princess cruise ship, filed a lawsuit against Carnival Cruise Lines. Claiming the ship wasn’t sanitized between cruises and passengers were not screened as they came on board. The University of Southern California announced they will resume in person classes in August. Sweden’s top epidemiologist, who recommended the “anti-lockdown” strategy for the country, said too many people have died and aggressive measures were clearly needed, reports The Washington Post. Austria will reopen borders with seven neighboring countries tomorrow. Germany will relax their global travel warning on the 15th. New Zealand has recorded it’s 12th day in a row of no new COVID-19 cases. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday June 2nd, 2020.   Many states are lifting restrictions over the next few weeks. Michigan lifted their stay at home order, retail will open Thursday, bars & restaurants Monday. New Jersey resumes outdoor dining and retail on the 15th. In Mississippi, all business can reopen and travel restrictions have been lifted as of yesterday.   In spite of the fact that cases in Mississippi are on the rise. They began the reopening April 27th.   There are 15,752 confirmed cases in Mississippi, 529 per 100,000 residents. A higher rate per 100,000 than more populous states like California, Texas and Florida. Though 11,203 are listed as “presumed recovered” on the Mississippi Department of Health website, leaving 4,549 active cases. The state has increased testing over the last few weeks, including universal testing for long term care facilities, according to Mississippi Today. A report by the Congressional Budget Office projects the U.S. economy will grow by 7.9 trillion dollars less over the next decade due to the pandemic. Coronavirus Task Force Member Dr. Fauci, told CNN he has not spoken or met with The President in two weeks. The Mayor of Atlanta extended hazard pay for front line workers through September 30th. Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, has shut down for a week to conduct intensive COVID-19 testing, reports The Washington Post. The World Health Organization says there are 133 potential vaccines in development around the world. Health Commissioners in Wuhan, China say they have conducted 9.9 million tests in a little over 2 weeks and have found no new cases. For the first time since March, Spain reported no COVID-19 related deaths. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday June 1st, 2020.  Mass protests across the U.S. have raised concerns of new COVID-19 spikes. The Mayor of Atlanta, Georgia is encouraging protestors to get a test this week. Georgia has 45,051 cases and 2019 deaths. With 424 per 100,000 residents. On April 24th, they became one of the first states to lift restrictions on restaurants, hair and nail salons and gyms. They continue to move forward with bars and nightclubs reopening today, with some restrictions. Since reopening, cases in Georgia have remained fairly level, with a slight decrease in the most recent 7-day average.   California, Texas and South Carolina reported their highest daily new case count on Sunday. 86 crew members on a commercial fishing boat for American Seafoods Company have tested positive for the virus, relays The Guardian. All had been tested and were negative prior to the ship’s departure. They will quarantine in Seattle. A Colorado man who spent more than two weeks in intensive care fighting COVID-19 got a hospital bill for over $840,000, reports The Washington Post. The man has insurance. Global cases of COVID-19 have passed 6 million, over 1.7 million are in the U.S. and more than half a million in Brazil. The Prime Minister of Armenia has tested positive for the virus. A Belgian Prince also tested positive, after traveling to Spain to attend a social event. Countries throughout Europe will loosen restrictions this week. In Spain restaurants and shops will open with limited capacity today. France opens restaurants, bars and beaches tomorrow. On Wednesday, Italy will lift travel restrictions. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Saturday May 30th, 2020.  The Washington State stay at home order will expire tomorrow. With counties making decisions on how and when to open. Washington saw the first Coronavirus case in the U.S. on January 20th, with cases peaking in late March. There are currently 22,109 cases in Washington, with 290 cases per 100,000 residents. Recently, The Seattle Times, reported that half of the new infections in the state are in people under 40. The Public Health Officer for King County said “The pattern in who’s getting infected over time reflects people’s behavior”.  “If we’re seeing a drop in age, that means younger people are doing things that place them at a higher risk of transmission compared to people who are older who might be staying home more reliably.”President Trump will terminate the U.S.’s relationship with the World Health Organization. Health experts and governments around the world say the move jeopardizes the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. A person who was in a crowded pool bar in Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri over Memorial Day weekend, has tested positive for the virus. In published research, the FDA revealed that until a vaccine becomes available, a combination of drugs may be needed to treat people and treatment may need to be customized to each patient. The Supreme Court ruled against allowing churches in California and Illinois to override current restricted state occupancy limits.  Latin America is the new epicenter for COVID-19, according to the Director of Communicable Diseases at the Pan American Health Organization. There are over 900,000 cases and almost 50,000 deaths across the regions 33 countries. German Chancellor Merkel has declined the invitation to attend the G7 summit in person due to concerns over the virus. The Mayor of London is urging residents to “act with caution” as lockdown restrictions will ease on Monday. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday May 29th, 2020.   111 inmates in a West Virginia Prison in Huttonsville have tested positive for the virus, with 433 tests still pending according to Clarksburg, WV TV station WBOY. The state plans to test all inmates, employees and contractors in the West Virginia Correctional System. West Virginia was the last state to report a confirmed case of COVID-19. They remain on the low end with 1,986 cases and 74 deaths due to the virus. But the state has shown a substantial growth in cases over the last week, adding 383 since the 22nd. West Virginia began its reopening plan April 30th and are wrapping up week 5 of a 7-week plan. The majority of businesses, including restaurants, bars, gyms, attractions and retail stores are open.A new CDC model projects 123,000 fatalities due to COVID-19 in the U.S. by June 20th. The CDC released new work place guidelines for employers to reopen offices. They include: temperature and symptom check on arrival, desks 6 feet apart, no seating in common areas and face coverings at all times. A Tyson plant in Buena Vista County Iowa announced more than 500 new cases. The Mayor of Boston announced the 2020 Boston Marathon has been cancelled for the first time in 124 years. Schools, parks, museums, and theaters in Seoul South Korea are closed again as the city battles a new cluster of the virus. Health Authorities in Moscow revised the cities April death toll. Nearly doubling the original number.   Turkey, Spain and the United Kingdom will begin the reopening process on Monday. Germany has started to ease lockdown restrictions, with pubs open and concerts returning to Berlin June 2nd.  The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday May 28th, 2020.  In less than 4 months, the U.S. became the first country to report more than 100,000 deaths due to the virus. More than a quarter of all global deaths. Confirmed case counts here climb toward 1.7 million. Four states have crossed the 100,000 cases mark: New York, New Jersey, Illinois and yesterday California. Of the 101,874 confirmed cases in California, 48,700 are in Los Angeles County. The second highest, is Riverside, considered part of the greater Los Angeles area, with 7,252 cases. On Tuesday, the state reported its highest one-day total yet, 3,215 cases. According to the LA Times, Officials attribute the spike to a lag in reporting over the holiday weekend. California was an early adopter of lockdown measures and continues to be diligent with restrictions. In late April, Los Angeles offered free COVID-19 testing to all residents, whether or not they had symptoms.  California continues to increase testing. The state has started to slowly lift restrictions, but The Governor has warned, this doesn’t mean the threat of the virus is gone. Coronavirus Task Force Member, Dr. Fauci, said a second wave of infection can be avoided if the U.S. opens correctly. With “clear and effective” testing, tracing and isolation measures, reports CNN. The weekly unemployment claims were released today, there were another 2.1 million filings. Boeing will lay off more than 12,000 workers. Some took voluntary departures. A company spokesperson said additional rounds of layoffs will occur over the next few months. For the first time since mid-March, Vermont has no hospitalized coronavirus patients. Seoul South Korea is closing all public facilities as of tomorrow after a virus cluster emerged near the city. The President of El Salvador said he is taking hydroxychloroquine to prevent COVID-19. Medical experts caution against the use of the drug outside of a hospital setting. Britain hopes to replace lockdowns with a nationwide testing and tracing program that would lead to more localized restrictions. The program begins today. In an effort to encourage tourism, Cyprus is offering to cover vacation costs for anyone who tests positive for the virus while visiting the island. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.  Special Thanks to Rick Shahum Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday May 27th, 2020.   The Mayor of Chicago is requesting 56 million dollars from the CDC and Illinois Department of Health to hire at least 600 contact tracers. Illinois has been hit hard. With 113, 486 confirmed cases, it’s 3rd behind New York and New Jersey. More than half of the cases, over 74,000, are in Cook County, home to Chicago. Illinois remains under a “stay at home” order through Friday. Chicago will continue the order through early June. New cases have been on the decline in Illinois over the last few days, however, the Illinois Department of Health Director said that may be because “fewer tests are processed and reported over the weekend” reports The Chicago Tribune. In updated guidance on their website, the CDC, said that Antibody tests may be wrong 50% of the time. And that they are not accurate enough to use to make important policy decisions. House Republicans plan on filing a federal lawsuit challenging remote voting by proxy. The change to voting was authorized in a House vote earlier this month. In Florida, Walt Disney World and Sea World will present their reopening plan to local government today, for a phased reopening of the parks.  Apple plans to reopen 100 U.S. stores this week, customers and employees will be required to wear masks. A leading model suggests that Brazil, may pass 125,000 deaths by August. In Chile, health officials relayed that ICU beds are 95% full. The country is adding about 4,000 cases a day. Spain began 10 days of National Mourning for COVID-19 victims. The longest in modern history, according to The New York Times. The European Union proposed an $826 billion recovery package for its 27 member nations. New Zealand released its final COVID-19 patient from the hospital today, reports NBC News. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday May 26th, 2020.   Over the weekend, The Governor of Arkansas, said the state is experiencing a second peak. A “stay at home order” was never put in place, Governor Hutchinson felt it was unnecessary due to the state’s low population. According to The New York Times, Arkansas has 6 counties experiencing faster rates of growth. Lincoln County with 7,119 cases per 100,000 has a higher percentage of infection than New York City with 2,411 per 100,000.  In the Northwest corner of the state, cases in Washington and Benton counties are doubling about every week. Testing has recently increased in both counties and a number of cases can be traced to meat packing plants. The U.S. is approaching 100,000 fatalities due to COVID-19, there are more than 1.6 million confirmed cases. The 10th COVID-19 potential vaccine will begin human trials this week, it was created by Maryland based Novavax. New York State will provide death benefits to all frontline workers who died during the pandemic including hospital and transit workers. The New York Stock Exchange will partially open its floor to traders today. Social distancing requirements are in effect. The NHL, will open practice facilities and begin training in June. The World Health Organization is warning of a second peak of the virus tied to flu season. They relayed that “all countries need to be ready to rapidly detect cases”.   Over 200 COVID-19 cases were reported at a Guatemalan textile plant. The Washington Post relays that officials were warned in early May that symptomatic workers continued to report to work and the company was not taking steps to protect employees. Officials in Wuhan China tested 6.5 million residents in 9 days, they are over halfway to their goal of testing all of Wuhan’s 11 million residents to prevent a second wave of the virus. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday May 25th, 2020. Memorial Day weekend saw large gatherings across the country, where social distancing was not always maintained. Prompting the FDA Commissioner to Tweet a reminder that the virus is not yet contained and “It is up to every individual to protect themselves and their community”. A few of these gatherings happened at Lake of the Ozarks in mid-Missouri.  Photos surfaced from bars in the area with large crowds, not practicing social distancing and most people without masks. A few hours from Lake of the Ozarks, in Springfield Missouri officials revealed that two hair stylists had tested positive for the virus. After having worked for over a week with symptoms. They potentially exposed 140 clients. Springfield is located in Greene County, where 116 confirmed cases currently exist. Missouri reopened the state in phases, with most counties reopening on May 3rd. The two largest cities in Missouri, St. Louis and Kansas City, lifted the stay at home order on the 18th. According to The New York Times, Missouri is one of 15 states, currently showing a decline in cases, with 197 per 100,000 residents. Over 50% of the states 12,114 cases are in St. Louis County and St. Louis City. A report on national testing strategy was delivered Sunday, and obtained by The Washington Post. In it, the Trump Administration stood by their initial claim that states are primarily responsible for carrying out tests, not the federal government. The U.S. has instituted a travel ban on Brazil. Barring entry to anyone who has been in Brazil within the last 14 days. Japan will end their “state of emergency” tonight. India reinstated domestic flights today after a two-month lockdown. Schools in New South Wales Australia were back in session today. South Africa will begin reopening on June 1st. New Zealand plans to move to a level 1 alert on June 22nd, lifting restrictions on gatherings and domestic travel. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Saturday May 23rd, 2020. Speaking at a White House press conference Friday, Dr. Birx said the Washington DC Metro has the highest rate of people testing positive in the country. Because the metro includes Washington DC and counties in Virginia and Maryland, the overall count of the area can be misleading. Washington DC proper, has the 5th highest case count with 1,118 per 100,000 residents. But add in the counties that comprise the metro area and according to Dr. Birx, it takes the top spot. The DC Metro accounts for 60% of average daily infections for The District, Maryland and Virginia, reports The Washington Post. Virginia and Maryland began easing restrictions last week, but both state’s kept restrictions in place for counties nearest the Washington DC metro.The CDC revealed that it has been combining tests for active COVID-19, with tests for the antibody. This can be misleading as antibody tests do not test for current infection or indicate if someone is contagious, just that they had been previously exposed. Speaking to the press Friday, President Trump said that houses of worship are essential and should “open right now”. And that he will “override the governors” if states do not allow them to reopen. The Vice President said negotiations for another stimulus package are “actively underway”. For the first time since March, more than 300,000 passed through airport security yesterday. Parts of Long Island and some other New York City suburbs may start reopening next week, if virus metrics continue to decline. Miami will reopen beaches and hotels to visitors on June 1st. The President of Brazil says quarantines and lockdowns will be more detrimental to the economy than the virus. Nearly 20,000 new cases were logged there yesterday. Brazil has the third highest case count in the world. Peru has extended their “state of emergency” through the end of June. China reported zero deaths due to COVID-19 on Saturday. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday May 22nd, 2020. The U.S. recorded over 25,000 new cases yesterday and 1,314 deaths. 6 states show a rise in cases over the last two weeks, including one that seemed relatively safe earlier in the outbreak. Maine reported their highest two-day total since the outbreak began. They have 1,877 confirmed cases, 136 of those were reported in the last two days. The state has been fairly aggressive with restrictions. The statewide stay at home order is in effect until June 1st, though some personal care business were allowed to reopen on May 1st.  A 14-day quarantine for anyone entering the state remains in effect through August. So why the jump? According to the Maine government website, the state increased testing on May 18th. Allowing health care providers to test anyone they suspected of having the virus. A grant from the CDC will expand testing across the state over the next few weeks, so the numbers may continue to rise as more Maine residents get tested. The CDC revised guidance on how the virus spreads, noting that touching contaminated objects or surfaces is not a significant mode of transmission. Primary spread is from person to person. The CDC has updated their modeling and is estimating that about 35% of COVID-19 cases are asymptomatic. President Trump echoed Treasury Secretary Mnuchin, stating he thinks there will be an additional stimulus package. Flags will be flown at half-staff for the next three days to honor victims of COVID-19. Yosemite National Park hopes to reopen in June. Reservations will be required. Latin America is witnessing a dramatic increase in cases, outpacing the US and Europe for 3 days in a row. Italy’s social security institute said their COVID-19 related death toll may be 60% higher than reported according to The Washington Post. Australia has extended their ban on international cruise ships in Australian waters through September 17th. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday May 21st, 2020. The Mayor of Montgomery, Alabama said the city faces a shortage of ICU beds. Forcing some patients to be transferred to hospitals out of town.   Alabama is one of 7 states where cases have increased over the last two weeks. On May 1st, there were 226 new cases, yesterday there were 676. There are 266 cases per 100,000 residents in Alabama, putting it ahead of more populous states like California, Washington, Florida and Texas. A model from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, warns that communities throughout the south that may have opened too quickly could see a new wave of infection in the next few weeks.Columbia University released a study noting that had the U.S. enacted social distancing measures one week earlier in March, 36,000 lives may have been saved. Had they been in place two weeks earlier, it is estimated that 83% of the fatalities could have been avoided. Harvard Medical School researchers relayed that the 25 monkeys they immunized with DNA vaccines, created antibodies that protected them from the virus. The higher the level of antibodies, the stronger the protection. Virginia, Texas, Georgia and Vermont have been combining COVID-19 tests results, which look for active infection, with antibody test results, which look for past exposure. According to CNN, combining the two overstates the testing ability of the state. Global cases passed 5 million, as the world saw the largest one day increase with 106,000 new cases according to the WHO. The Director of the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control has warned that Europe must be ready for a second wave of the virus, saying “The question is when and how big”, reports The Guardian. In Afghanistan, The Health Ministry relayed it is out of hospital beds for COVID-19 patients.  The Bolivian Health Minister has been arrested on corruption charges that he grossly overpaid for a contract to buy ventilators for hospitals. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday May 20th, 2020. One week ago, the Wisconsin Supreme Court overruled the extension of the state’s stay at home order. Milwaukee and Racine issued their own stay at home orders, but in a number of smaller cities and counties bars and restaurants were opened with limited protocols in place. So, how do the numbers in Wisconsin look one week later? Confirmed cases have gone from 10,900 to 13,001, deaths from 421 to 467. Bars and restaurants will start to reopen Friday in the Milwaukee suburbs and some water and amusement parks in the Wisconsin Dells will open Saturday. The challenge now is how to deal with people coming to Wisconsin from neighboring Illinois, which has the third highest case count in the country.Over the weekend, The CDC released a 60-page guide online to assist in the reopening of schools, restaurants and other businesses. Guidelines for places of worship, were not included. A federal judge in Texas has ruled that voters should be allowed to mail in ballots. The state is expected to appeal. Michigan will mail absentee ballots to all voters for the upcoming August and November elections. Arkansas will begin testing every nursing home resident and employee on June 1st. Los Angeles County hopes to reopen businesses by July 4th.  Alaska will move from phase 2 to phase 4, fully reopening the state with no capacity restrictions, on Friday. A mandatory 2-week quarantine for those arriving to the state will remain in effect through June 2nd. In opening remarks at The World Health Assembly, The WHO Director-General said: ‘We have come together as the nations of the world to confront the defining health crisis of our time.’ Almost 200 cases in Seoul, South Korea have been linked to a cluster that began in a nightclub, that briefly reopened after the initial lockdown was lifted. As Spain continues reopening the country, masks are now mandatory for everyone over age 6, in pubic spaces. Britain’s Cambridge University will move all lectures to online until mid-2021. Some small in person classes will continue. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday May 19th, 2020. Cases in the U.S. have passed 1.5 million, with over 90,000 deaths. Communities large and small have been affected. New York and New Jersey have been especially hard hit, recently, the Navajo Nation has passed both states for the highest per capita infection rate in the U.S., with 2,304.41 cases per 100,000 residents according to CNN. Gallup, New Mexico, which sits on the edge of the Navajo Nation has the highest rate of deaths and infection relative to their population over the last two weeks, according to The New York Times. The Navajo Nation includes portions of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. Their lockdown has been strict, with only essential workers allowed to leave home with documentation. Currently 11% of the population have been tested for the virus. President Trump announced that he takes hydroxychloroquine daily and has for over a week. The FDA has warned against the use of the drug outside of a hospital setting. Connecticut has hit all benchmarks for reopening and will begin the first phase on Wednesday. They are the last state to lift or loosen restrictions.  A number of colleges and universities, are cancelling fall break and ending in person classes before Thanksgiving in an effort to curb the spread of the virus. In a letter to the Inspector General of the World Health Organization, President Trump threatened to permanently pull funding if the WHO doesn’t “commit to major substantive improvements in the next 30 days”.  El Salvador’s Supreme Court overruled The President’s extension of the country’s state of emergency. Saying it was unlawful because he did not seek congressional approval. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday May 18th, 2020. All but two states have lifted some restrictions as of today, including Iowa, where restaurants, gyms and salons opened in 22 counties on Friday. In a recent paper, University of Iowa researchers warned that the virus was likely still spreading and though some lockdown measures did mitigate the virus, they were not “sufficient to prevent uncontained spread” on their own. Reports the Iowa Times Republican. Over the last two weeks, Sioux City Iowa has the highest number of new cases per population with 13.27 per 1000 residents, according to The New York Times. The US Health and Human Services Secretary suggested that the underlying health conditions of Americans, was a major contributor to the death toll from the coronavirus. The Chairman of the Federal Reserve told 60 Minutes that he expects the economy to recover, but it may take until the end of next year. 13 Sailors from the USS Theodore Roosevelt have tested positive for COVID-19 for a second time, after recovering from a first infection, reports The Washington Post. More than 100 countries are calling for an independent evaluation in to the origin of the pandemic, relays CNN. The Mayor of Sao Paolo, Brazil, warned that the health care system in the city is on the verge of collapse, according to The Washington Post. A flight by the Canadian Snowbirds, meant to lift spirits and show support for those fighting COVID-19 ended in a tragic crash Sunday. One member was killed, another injured. In Italy restaurants, salons and churches reopened today, as cases continue to decline there. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Saturday May 16th, 2020. As more states reopen, CNN reviewed which one’s are seeing the fastest rates of growth. Rankings are based on new cases per 100,000 people.  South Dakota took the top spot with a 134% increase moving from 7 to 15 cases per 100,000. Officials in South Dakota plan to test all nursing home and care facility residents and staff starting next week. The House passed a 3 trillion-dollar relief bill. It is not expected to pass The Senate. The CDC has published a 6-page guide to assist businesses and schools with reopening. The Texas Supreme Court has temporarily stopped voting by mail for those who say the coronavirus would keep them from going out to vote. Ford will reopen plants around the country on Monday after almost two months. Positive news on a vaccine being developed at Oxford University. In recent lab tests, monkeys that were given the vaccine developed COVID-19 antibodies and were not infected when exposed to the virus. The Prime Minister of Spain will ask for one final extension of the state of emergency. Indonesia will require anyone entering the country to submit a health certificate from their country of origin and take a COVID-19 test. Italy will allow domestic and international travel as of June 3rd.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday May 15th, 2020. 3 million more Americans filed for unemployment last week, bringing the number to over 36 million since the start of the COVID-19 crisis. The former head of BARDA, testified to Congress for nearly four hours yesterday. Dr. Bright said that the outbreak will get worse unless the U.S. develops a national testing strategy and a vaccine distribution plan. The President said Dr. Bright is a “disgruntled employee”. The Trump Administration announced they will “replenish and modernize” the national stockpile of masks, ventilators and other PPE. The manufacturing will be done in the U.S. The House will vote on a rule change to allow remote voting and a 3 Trillion-dollar aid package today. The aid package is not expected to make it through The Senate.   Beaches in New Jersey will open in time for Memorial Day.  Doctors in Italy say they have scientific evidence linking coronavirus to pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome, reports CBS News. Brazil has reported over 200,000 cases of COVID-19, they have the 6th highest case count in the world. After two weeks of single digit cases, Slovenia announced that the epidemic is over there and they have opened their borders. Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia have opened their shared borders. Allowing free travel among residents of the Baltic states.  Australia began to reopen today. The country suffered fewer than 100 deaths and only a few dozen remain in hospitals, according to The Washington Post. China has gone one month without a death due to COVID-19. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday May 14th, 2020. The Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled against The Governor’s stay at home order. Saying he did not have the authority to act without input from the legislature. President Trump strongly disagreed with Dr. Fauci over his statement that some schools should not reopen in the Fall. The President said that was “not acceptable” and that the Doctor wants to “play all sides of the equation”. At least 16 states reported cases of children with a “severe inflammatory illness” that may be related to COVID-19. Two new studies confirm that the virus can infect the intestines, kidneys and other organs.  The former head of BARDA who filed a Whistleblower complaint, will testify before Congress today. Dr. Bright is expected to say that we face the “darkest winter in modern history” if we don’t develop a more coordinated response before an expected resurgence of the virus later this year. Burundi has asked four World Health Organization representatives to leave the country by Friday. After one representative raised concerns about crowded political rallies, relays The Washington Post. Chile reported over 2600 cases in the last 24 hours, their largest yet. For the first time in 12 days, Russia reported under 10,000 new daily cases. Mexico will begin to lift some regional quarantines on Monday and the remainder of the country on June 1st. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday May 13th, 2020. Two key figures on the White House Coronavirus Task Force, warned The Senate that the U.S. is “not out of the woods” and caution against opening up too quickly. Senators and health experts expressed the need for testing to be ramped up. Modeling from The University of Washington, increased projected U.S. fatalities to 147,000 by early August. Los Angeles County will extend lockdown restrictions for an additional 3 months. The 23 campuses affiliated with California State University system said the majority of fall classes will not be held in person. New Orleans will begin to reopen on Saturday. Face masks will be required in public. A new study from The World Health Organization reveals that smokers and former smokers are more likely to develop severe disease and potential death due to COVID-19 than non-smokers. A type of Russian made ventilator has been catching fire. Russian hospitals will discontinue use and FEMA has returned the same ventilators. Hong Kong officials confirmed the first new locally transmitted cases there in 22 days. Pakistan recorded their highest number of new daily infections yesterday. Thailand reported no new cases for the first time since mid-January. The German/Austria border will be partially reopened on Friday, with a full reopening on June 15th. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday May 12th, 2020. Dr. Fauci will testify in front of The Senate today.  The Coronavirus Task Force member will warn that reopening too early will cause “needless suffering and death” reports The New York Times. The Commissioner of the FDA and Head of the CDC will also testify. More than 80,000 in the U.S. have already died due to COVID-19. The Federal Government will provide states with 11 billion dollars for coronavirus testing needs. The majority of White House personnel will be asked to wear masks in public spaces on The White House Campus. Major League Baseball will present a proposal to the players union today to resume play with spring training in June and opening day in July. Russia has passed Spain and is now has the second most COVID-19 cases, behind the U.S. More than 100 health care workers in Mexico have died due to the virus. Authorities in Wuhan, China plan to test all 11 million residents by the end of next week, to fully extinguish the virus, reports The Washington Post. France has extended their “State of Emergency” through July 10th. Allowing the government to reinstate restrictions as necessary due to the virus. Spain will require a 14-day quarantine for anyone coming in to the country, including Spanish Nationals. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday May 11th, 2020. Sunday saw the lowest number of reported new cases and deaths in the U.S. since the end of March, relays The Washington Post. But a new model from The University of Washington now predicts over 137,000 deaths by early August. Coronavirus task force member Dr. Fauci, the head of the CDC and the FDA commissioner will participate in some form of self-quarantine after exposure to someone in the White House with the virus. The Vice President was also exposed, but will not quarantine. Johnson and Johnson will start clinical trials on a vaccine in September and if successful hope to produce a billion vaccines next year. As cases in Russia continue to grow, they now have the third highest case count in the world, behind the U.S. and Spain. India recorded their highest single day of new cases, with 4,213. In Wuhan, China, 5 new locally transmitted cases of the virus were confirmed. These are the first locally transmitted cases reported there in over a month. England announced a phased reopening plan, it will not apply to Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland where lockdown measures are still in place. Shanghai Disneyland has reopened after three and a half months, with some social distancing modifications. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Saturday May 9th, 2020. Global cases edge toward 4 million, with over 275,000 deaths. The Press Secretary for Vice President Pence has tested positive for the virus. The commissioner of the FDA will self-isolate after reportedly coming in to contact with the Press Secretary. The Federal Office of Special Counsel, has determined that Health and Human Services violated the Whistleblower Protection Act by removing Dr. Bright as director of BARDA, reports CBS News. Hawaii recorded no new cases of COVID-19 for the first time since mid-March. The Governor of California announced that ballots will be mailed to all registered voters for the November election.  The FDA has approved the first COVID-19 test that tests saliva collected at home. Seoul, South Korea has shut all bars and night clubs after a cluster of the virus was tracked to a nightclub. The UK will require anyone entering the country to quarantine for 14 days starting in June. Around 2 million Canadians lost their jobs in April, adding to the one million who lost jobs in March. One thousand baseball fans in Taiwan were allowed to watch a game in the stadium on Friday, social distancing protocols were observed. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday May 8th, 2020. After one of his valets tested positive for the virus, President Trump says he will be tested daily. Michigan will extend their stay at home order through May 28th, but manufacturing workers can go back to work next week. The Governor of Nebraska relayed that meatpacking employees make up 1 in 7 cases in his state.  While the majority of California will reopen today, San Francisco will hold until May 18th. Nevada will begin to reopen on the 9th, though casinos will not be included in the first round of openings. The FDA approved a COVID-19 test that gives results in an hour and requires no complicated or expensive equipment. The New York Times is reporting that Mexico is underreporting hundreds and potentially thousands of deaths due to the virus in Mexico City. The information comes from officials and data reviewed by The Times. The UN Secretary General said that COVID-19 has created "a tsunami of hate and xenophobia, scapegoating and scare-mongering” and has called on world leaders, media and all individuals to stand up against hate.  Norway has begun to ease restrictions, school will resume next week and increasing the number of people allowed at gatherings from 5 to 20. The Australian Prime Minister has announced plans for reopening. With hopes for most aspects of the country ready by July.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday May 7th, 2020. The Yale Public School of Health concludes that New York was the primary gateway for the spread of COVID-19 to the rest of the country, reports The New York Times. A CDC study revealed that nearly 5,000 prisoners and 2,000 employees of the prison system have contracted the virus. More children have been admitted to hospitals with unusual symptoms likely related to COVID-19. New York has reported 64 patients.  General Motors will resume manufacturing at some plants on the 18th. They have been shut down for two months. Scientists are working on an inexpensive coronavirus test that would give results as easily as a home pregnancy test.  The Mayor of Moscow said that cases there have hit 300,000. Three times higher than what has been reported. In Poland, the Presidential Election has been postponed, with no new date announced.  Syria has postponed a Parliamentary election, relays The Guardian.  Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia will allow residents to travel freely between the countries starting tomorrow. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday May 6th, 2020.  A genetic analysis of the virus, based on over 7600 patients from around the world, found evidence that the virus was infecting people in the U.S. and Europe, weeks and potentially months before first cases were reported in January, relays CNN. The Trump Administration will wind down the Coronavirus Task force at the end of the month, relying on individual government agencies to manage the response. A new study finds that while black Americans represent just over 13% of the population, they account for more than half of all COVID-19 cases and nearly 60% of deaths. Sao Luis is the first city in Brazil to enter lockdown. Rio is reportedly considering similar measures, reports The Washington Post. The United Kingdom has the highest confirmed COVID-19 death toll in Europe. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, will layout out the UK’s reopening plan on Sunday. Slovakia has opened hotels, restaurant and more. Germany will announce their plans for a gradual reopening today. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday May 5th, 2020.  15 children have been hospitalized in New York City, with a mysterious illness that appears to be linked to the virus. Similar cases have been noted in Europe. A Michigan Congressman is suing the state’s Governor saying she did not have the authority to shut down the state. The Department of Labor opened an investigation in to a meat packing plant in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where over 150 employees have tested positive for COVID-19.  California will begin opening some businesses on Friday, with modifications to enforce social distancing. Mississippi will allow outdoor gatherings of up to 20 people. Nike plans to donate 30,000 pairs of shoes specifically designed for healthcare workers to health systems and hospitals. More than 250,000 have died worldwide due to COVID-19. France is the 5th country to pass 25,000 fatalities. A study published Sunday, relays that the virus was spreading in France as early as December, reports The Washington Post. World leaders, charities and individuals came together to raise 8.2 billion dollars to develop a vaccine and drugs to help with the eradication of COVID-19. Governments of the U.S., Russia and India did not participate. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday May 4th, 2020.  President Trump raised his estimate on the potential death toll due to COVID-19 to up to 100,000. Governor Cuomo of New York announced a 7-state partnership to purchase 5 billion dollars of medical equipment. This will help New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Delaware, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island become more competitive in the global marketplace and save taxpayer money.  Remdesivir, the antiviral drug that increases the speed of a patient’s recovery, will be available to hospitals this week. Reagan National Airport in Washington DC, will temporarily close a terminal due to reduced activity. Uber will require drivers and riders to wear a mask, reports ABC News.Japan has extended their “State of Emergency” through the end of May. EU regulators approved a 7.6-billion-dollar bailout for Air France-KLM, reports The Washington Post.   After 8 weeks, Italy has begun to loosen some restrictions.  Iceland ends their 6-week quarantine, travel restrictions will remain in place. For the first time since March 16th, New Zealand reported no new cases of COVID-19. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Sunday May 3rd, 2020.  Coronavirus task force member, Dr. Birx, told Fox News, that protestors are concerning to her and asks Americans to “protect each other, at the same time we are voicing our discontent”. Oregon has extended their “state of emergency” through July 6th. Preserving The Governor’s ability to issue emergency orders and if needed, keep the stay at home order in place.  The Governor of Ohio told ABC News, that his mandatory face mask order, went too far. Around 2.2 million loans worth about $175 billion have been paid out in round two of the stimulus package designed to help small businesses, reports CNN. The NFL confirmed they plan to start on time, with the season opener on September 10th. Russia has suffered its fourth day of record new cases of COVID-19. The Philippines have canceled all passenger and commercial flights. The British Medical Association, relayed that nearly half of all doctors are buying their own Personal Protective Equipment. Spain reported their lowest one-day death toll since March 18th. South Korea will relax social distancing guidelines. Thailand eased some restrictions, as only 3 new cases were reported there on Sunday. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a special edition of Coronavirus 4-1-1. Here to tell you about a new podcast that offers some ways to help a family cope during the time of pandemic lock downs. It's called The Quarantine Mom with Katie Brown. Hosted by bestselling author and award winning television show host, Katie Brown.  To listen to show just search for Quarantine Mom with Katie Brown in Apple Podcasts or on Spotify. You can get new episodes weekly. Now let's take a listen to an episode where we learn some life lessons from a sandwich.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Saturday May 2nd, 2020.   The FDA has authorized the emergency use of Remdesivir, an antiviral drug, that has shown some promise in speeding recovery of the virus. The Governor of New Mexico has closed roads to all non-essential traffic to the city of Gallup.  As the virus outbreak sees rapid growth there.  The Washington Post found that around 300 publicly traded companies received more than one billion dollars in funding meant for small businesses through the “Paycheck Protection Program”. While unemployment has hit all of the states hard, Hawaii, seems to have taken one of the hardest, with 29% of the workforce filing for unemployment, according to CBS News.  Russia reported another record number of daily cases with over 9500. Moscow contributed over 5,000 of them. After 7 weeks, Spain has lifted some confinement rules, allowing those over 14 outside for exercise. The state of emergency in Spain continues for another week. JK Rowling, author of the Harry Potter book series, will donate 1.25 million to COVID-19 related charities. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday May 1st, 2020.  The Center for Infectious Disease and Policy said the virus will continue to spread for the next 18 to 24 months, until 60-70% of the world is infected. Organizers have said employees at Amazon, Whole Foods, Target and Fed Ex will walk off the job or call in sick today, demanding hazard pay, sick leave and more, reports CBS News. Most major US airlines will now require passengers to wear a mask. Arizona, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Washington have extended their stay at home orders, though some have loosed restrictions. NASCAR will restart their season May 17th at Darlington, with no spectators in the stands. Russia reported nearly 8,000 new infections on Thursday, another record day. Hubei province in China, home to Wuhan, will lower their emergency threat level.   South Africa lifts their lockdown today, but will continue to enforce social distancing and other precautions.  In Malaysia, most businesses will reopen starting Monday. France will open some schools on May 12th, Israel announced schools will fully open on June 1st. An aquarium in Tokyo, Japan is asking people to face time the spotted garden eels to keep them used to people. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday April 30th, 2020. The first results from human trials for a vaccine from Oxford University, should be available in June, reports CNN. Coronavirus task force member, Dr. Fauci, relayed that studies show remdesivir, an antiviral drug, could shorten the recovery time by about a third. Los Angeles will offer all residents free coronavirus testing. It is the first major city in the US to do so.  Frontline essential workers in Michigan will be offered free tuition for post-secondary institutions, similar to the GI Bill.  Vermont has reported no new cases since Monday. It is the first state to report zero cases in a day since March. With an updated fatality count, to include deaths in care homes and communities, the United Kingdom is on pace to pass Italy as the worst hit country in Europe, according to The Washington Post.  Russia had their largest one day increase in cases, with over 7,000 reported. Japan extend their “State of Emergency” for another month. Sri Lanka has imposed a 24-hour lockdown.   For the first time in 72 days, South Korea’s President has said there are no new domestic cases.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday April 29th, 2020. The U.S. has passed one million cases.  In less than 3 months, more Americans have died due to COVID-19 than in all 10 years of the Vietnam War. Coronavirus task force member, Dr. Fauci, said the US could be in for a “bad fall and bad winter” if we aren’t prepared for the return of the virus. Oxford University has begun human testing and is hopeful they may have a vaccine by September, reports CBS News. The President signed an executive order, under the Defense Production Act, to keep meat processing plants open. For the first time and for this year only, movies not released in theaters will be eligible to be nominated for an Academy Award. Russia extended their ban on foreigners entering the country until further notice. It was set to expire Wednesday. Germany has extended their international travel warning through June 14th. France will end their lockdown on May 11th, with a gradual reopening of the country. Vietnam has announced no domestic transmission of the virus for two weeks. The World Bank set aside $195 million for 64 poor countries to help with the fight against the virus, reports The Guardian.  In Lithuania, restaurants were allowed to reopen Monday, but only with outdoor seating, reports The Washington Post. So, a city there decided to open city plazas, squares and streets to local restaurants, to accommodate more customers. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… Tuesday April 28th, 2020.  The President announced national testing guidelines, with the goal for states to test at least 2% of their population each month. He also noted that the federal government is “to act as supplier of last resort”.  The CDC is working on reopening guidelines for businesses and organizations, according to CBS News. They include: closing breakrooms, restaurants using disposable menus and students having lunch in the classroom. An Illinois judge blocked The Governor’s 30-day extension of the stay at home order. The Illinois Attorney General will appeal the ruling.  Louisiana has extended the stay at home order until May 15th. Ohio, Pennsylvania and Texas will begin to slowly reopen starting on May 1st. The President of The Japan Medical Association, said that “it would be difficult to hold the Olympics unless effective vaccines are developed”. According to The World Health Organization, Spain has changed criteria for reporting cases, resulting in a decrease of 12,130.  Austria will start to lift some lockdown measures on May 1st. Today, the French Prime Minster will set out their strategy for relaxing restrictions. Over 2 million Australians have downloaded a contact tracing app, it’s designed to help health authorities find people who may have come in to contact with someone with the virus, reports CNN. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday April 27th, 2020.  Coronavirus task force member Dr. Birx, said social distancing will be with us through the summer. The second application window for small business loans from the economic rescue package opens today. The FDA has approved 3 new coronavirus antibody tests, adding to the 4 already available, reports CNN. The USNS Comfort, docked in New York City, released its final patient on Sunday. The ship will head back to Norfolk Virginia. COVID-19 cases are rising on the USS Kidd, 33 of the 350 on board have tested positive. New York’s governor laid out a 3 phased plan to reopen the state. Some businesses, outside of New York City, could open after May 15th.On his first day back to work, after recovering from the virus, British Prime Minster Boris Johnson said Britain was close to “the end of the first phase of this conflict” but cautioned residents to remain diligent for the two more weeks of the stay at home order. China is reporting that the last 12 COVID-19 patients in Wuhan hospitals were released on Sunday. Volkswagen has restarted production at their German headquarters.  New Zealand will lift a number of lockdown restrictions at midnight. Health Officials report they have effectively eliminated the virus in the country.The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Sunday April 26th, 2020. The global death toll has passed 200,000, as cases climb toward 3 million. Coronavirus Task Force member, Dr. Brix, told Fox News she expects the number of deaths to decrease rapidly by the end of May. The CDC adds 6 new symptoms to list of possible signs of the virus. They are: chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat and difficulty breathing. Hawaii has extended their stay at home order through the end of May. California has canceled the state fair, which was set for mid-July, for the first time since World War II. Boeing will restart production at plants in Washington, Ohio and Pennsylvania. India reported its largest number of new daily cases, with just under 2,000. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson will return to work on Monday, after recovering from COVID-19. After 6 weeks of a stay at home order, Spain is allowing children under 14 to play outside for an hour a day. Saudi Arabia will allow stores to open and movement outside the home from 9A-5P during Ramadan.  Western Australia is relaxing some lockdown restrictions. China is reporting that there are no more Coronavirus patients in Wuhan hospitals. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411 with a special episode to tell you about a new documentary podcast that tells the stories of life in the time of Coronavirus, it is called Telescope. Hosted by Jonathan Hirsch, creator of Dear Franklin Jones. Telescope tells stories we need right now...stories of human struggle, resilience, and connection. To listen to the show, just search for Telescope in Apple Podcasts or whenever you listen. You can get new episodes of Telescope every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Now here’s a sample of Telescope. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Saturday April 25th, 2020. The U.S. has more than 900,000 cases and over 51,000 deaths. Accounting for nearly 1/3 of all cases in the world and more than 25% of all deaths. The FDA is warning doctors not to prescribe hydroxychloroquine, citing serious side effects and even death. Another US Navy ship is fighting COVID-19, the USS Kidd has at least 18 positive cases. The Florida Keys will remain closed to visitors through at least the end of May. Michigan has extended their stay at home order until May 15th, but some businesses and outdoor activities can reopen. On Monday, Tennessee, Minnesota and Colorado will re-open some businesses. The World Health Organization is cautioning governments against “immunity passports” for those who have been infected, noting there is not enough evidence that they will be immune from a second infection, reports The Washington Post. Medical workers continue to put themselves at risk for contracting the virus. In Spain, 18% of cases are healthcare workers, in Italy its 10%. Cases continue to rise on the Italian cruise ship docked in Nagasaki Japan. The current count is 148. There are 623 crew members on board, no passengers. Greece will loosen lockdown restrictions on May 4th. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday April 24th, 2020. The House approved the 484-billion-dollar relief bill to assist small businesses, hospitals and testing. The bill heads to The President for a signature. Results from New York’s antibody study showed that 13.9% of the random 3,000 tested had the antibody, suggesting that 2.7 million may have been infected throughout the state. The Health Director of LA County said COVID-19 is now the leading cause of death in Los Angeles, with an average of 44 a day. Tyson Foods is dealing with a number of COVID-19 closures. They have temporarily stopped production in some Washington, Tennessee and Iowa plants. United Airlines will require flight attendants to wear a face covering while on duty starting today. The Governor of Minnesota said some businesses will reopen starting Monday, allowing 80 to 100,000 to return to work. Three former Brazilian Health Ministers, have denounced President Bolsonaro to the UN Human Rights Commission for failing to protect the people of Brazil from COVID-19, reports The Washington Post. A backlog of tests in Ecuador has led to a 50% jump in number of cases there, to over 22,000.  Malaysia has extended their lockdown through May 12th. Dubai has loosed some restrictions on residents, as of today. The Czech Republic will allow some non-essential businesses to reopen Monday. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday April 23rd, 2020. Reviewing new models, many researchers believe most states should not reopen until the end of May. Georgia is set to open some businesses on Friday. President Trump said he felt Georgia was moving too quickly. The Mayor of Atlanta said opening the state now would be “deadly”. A doctor working at a federal agency to help develop a COVID-19 vaccine, says he was removed after questioning hydroxychloroquine, relays The New York Times. Dr. Bright says he will file a Whistleblower complaint with The Department of Health and Human Services. Over 4.4 million filed unemployment claims last week. Montana will lift the stay at home order on Sunday, schools there will have the option to resume in classroom learning on May 7th. Oklahoma will open non-essential businesses on May 1st. Greece is extending their lockdown through May 4th.  Chancellor Merkel, cautioned Governors of Germany’s 16 states, against re-opening too quickly. Iran has reported their lowest number of daily cases in a month. Russia has reported a three-day decline of new infections. Vietnam has relaxed social distancing measures after a 6-day decline in cases. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday April 22nd, 2020. Two deaths in Santa Clara County, California in early February, have been attributed to the virus, autopsies reveal. The deaths on February 6th and 17th are the earliest known in the U.S. Neither victim had been out of the country, transmission was likely “community spread”. Meaning the virus may have been spreading in the U.S. weeks earlier than thought. Antibody tests from a study conducted by USC and the LA County Public Health Department, conclude that more than 320,000 in LA may have been infected, reports CBS news. The Senate passed the $484 billion aid bill, it includes $382 billion for small businesses, $75 billion for hospitals, and $25 billion for testing. The bill heads to the House for a vote. A study done by the Veterans Administration concluded that patients treated with hydroxychloroquine had higher death rates than patients not treated with the drug. The USNS Comfort, docked in New York City, will no longer accept new patients, as the need is no longer there. An executive order, signed by India’s Prime Minster, will make attacks on healthcare workers punishable with 6 months to 7 years in prison. In Spain, The Prime Minister has asked Parliament to extended lockdown restrictions to May 9th, with a “slow and gradual” re-opening after that, reports The Washington Post. There are 33 cases on board an Italian cruise ship, docked in Nagasaki, Japan. 623 total crew members are on board, no passengers. South Korea has announced a 32-billion-dollar aid package to assist businesses hit hard by the virus. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday April 21st, 2020.  A state prison in Marion Ohio has the largest cluster of cases in the U.S. with over 1900 inmates and employees testing positive. New York State will start a widespread antibody testing program to see what percentage of the population has had the virus. 3,000 residents will be randomly selected to see if they have immunity.  Indiana will extend their stay at home order through the 1st. While many other states are relaxing restrictions. Georgia will allow some non-essential businesses to open as early as Friday. The Governor acknowledged cases will likely go up, but feels the state is prepared for the increase. South Carolina has opened beaches and some non-essential businesses. Tennessee will reopen business on May 1st.  Pennsylvania will begin loosening restrictions on the 8th. Global cases are closing in on 2.5 million. US, Mexico and Canada will extend travel restrictions for another 30 days. Singapore has extended restrictions through June 1st. The Indian Medical Association, is asking for a law to protect healthcare workers from violence, noting “doctors have been abused, beaten up, denied entry and residence." A driver for the WHO was killed in Myanmar while transporting COVID-19 test samples, reports The Washington Post.  A Doctors’ Association survey in the UK shows many are lacking needed Personal Protective Equipment. Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany has been cancelled.  Italy will begin a gradual reopen of the country on May 4th. The Prime Minister has warned it will be a slow process.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday April 20th, 2020. More than 40,000 Americans have died due to COVID-19, as cases here climb toward 760,000. Iowa experienced its largest one day increase in new cases, adding 260, all from the meatpacking industry.  The U.S. currently conducts about 150,000 tests a day, Harvard researchers estimate we need to at least triple the daily rate to safely ease restrictions,  reports The New York Times.  President Trump said he will use The Defense Production Act to get more swabs for coronavirus testing.   In Washington State, more than 2,000 protested the stay at home order, Colorado and Tennessee also had protests. Negotiations look promising for an additional 450-billion-dollar relief package. 300 billion would go to the Paycheck Protection Program, 50 billion for the Small Business Administration’s Disaster Relief Fund, 75 billion for hospitals and 25 billion for testing. Russian President Putin, said the peak of the virus is still ahead. More than 47,000 have been diagnosed in Russia. Spain’s death toll continues to fall, the Prime Minister will ask Parliament to extend the lockdown through the 11th, relays The Guardian.   New Zealand has extended their lockdown another 5 days. India saw their largest daily rise in cases, but moved forward in lifting some lockdown restrictions.  Australia, Germany, Norway, Iran and others have also begun to slowly lift restrictions. The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Sunday April 19th, 2020. Demonstrations against local social distancing restrictions were held this weekend in Arizona, Texas, California, Maryland, Utah, Washington and Colorado. Speaker Pelosi told ABC News they are close to a bipartisan deal to replenish money for the small business loan program. The Governors of Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky will work together to reopen the Midwest regional economy, reports CNN. The One World Together at Home concert, has raised over $127 million in commitments for COVID-19 relief.Iran will keep mosques and holy shrines closed for at least the first two weeks of Ramadan. South Korea reported a single digit increase in new cases on Sunday.  Australia is calling for an “independent review” in to the origins of the pandemic. Israel has slowly begun to ease lockdown restrictions.  The New Zealand Cabinet will meet Monday to discuss easing some restrictions. With this, the Prime Minister has asked residents to keep a record of where they go, to make it easier if the virus re-emerges.  The locations of hotspots and U.S and Country diagnoses in a moment.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Saturday April 18th, 2020. The U.S. total has reached more than 700,000, reporting over 30,000 cases yesterday.  Mississippi has extended their shelter in place order through the 27th. New York City has cancelled all events for the month of May. A study out of Stanford University, found that the virus could be 50 to 85 times higher than official numbers indicate. Many states are laying out there plans to re-open. Including Texas, Wisconsin, Idaho, Minnesota, Alaska and Vermont.  Michigan hopes to loosen regulations on May 1st. In New York State, Governor Cuomo said that hospitalizations due to the virus are undeniably on the decline. Spain’s death toll crossed 20,000. Russia recorded over 4700 new cases in 24 hours, Singapore had 942 new infections reported on Saturday, a new daily high for both countries. In Northeast China, where they share a border with Russia, cases are on the rise. Ventilators are in short supply in Africa, there are 2,000 among 41 countries on the continent. About 2% of South Koreans who had recovered from COVID-19 have retested positive, relays CNN. The Guardian reports around 850 UK citizens will be repatriated from Bangladesh on 4 charter flights. Public health officials across Europe are cautiously optimistic, that the first wave of the virus may be ending, relays The Washington Post.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday April 17th, 2020.  The President announced a three phased plan to re-open the country. Once a state meets the “gating” criteria of a 14-day downward trajectory in presumptive and confirmed cases, a testing and contact tracing program in place and can treat all patients without “crisis care” they can begin Phase I. Which advises keeping groups to less than 10, work from home, restaurants, theaters and places of worship, can open with strict physical distancing. If the 14-day gating is still met, then Phase II, schools reopen, keep groups to less than 50, bars re-open with diminished occupancy. Phase III, if no evidence of a resurgence, resume normal workspace, resume visits to hospitals and nursing homes. The President noted, Governors will do what is best for their state. New York State, Los Angeles and Washington DC, have extended social distancing restrictions to May 15th. The FDA is asking those that have recovered from COVID-19 to donate blood plasma which could be used to help currently ill patients fight the virus. Japan declared a nationwide state of emergency. China had its worst 3-month economic downturn since at least 1992. The Mayor of London is calling for face coverings to be worn in public. Younger students in Denmark return to school with social distancing protocols in place. In Germany, the reproduction factor has dropped below 1. Meaning on average, each infected patient is infecting less than 1 person.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday April 16th, 2020.  There are more than 2 million global cases of COVID-19, nearly 1/3 are in the U.S. 22 million Americans have filed for unemployment over the last 4 weeks. New guidelines for preventing the spread of the virus and reopening the economy will be announced today, according to the President. New York, Connecticut and Maryland will require residents to wear a mask in public. The mayor of Los Angeles said concerts and sporting events may not be allowed in the city until 2021.  Idaho will allow some non-essential businesses to open after April 30th if they can ensure social distancing and protection of customers and employees.   The Navy is considering re-instating the Captain of the USS Theodore Roosevelt, who was removed for failure to follow the chain of command in regard to the COVID-19 outbreak on his ship. At least 668 crew members of France’s Charles De Gaulle aircraft carrier have tested positive for the virus. British Health Minister Dorries, wrote on Twitter, “There is only one way we can “exit” a full lockdown and that is when we have a vaccine”. The Australian Prime Minster, said restrictions will remain in place for at least 4 more weeks. Prime Minister Trudeau, said the lockdown in Canada will last many more weeks. Germany will reopen non-essential businesses next week.  Emirates airline, based in Dubai, has started testing passengers for COVID-19 prior to boarding. A 99 year old war veteran from northern England, Tom Moore, raised more than 15 million dollars for the National Health System, by walking 100 lengths of his garden, reports CNN.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday April 15th, 2020. President Trump will pause funding for The World Health Organization while a review is conducted. The U.S. is the organizations largest donor. The UN Secretary General was one of many to speak out against President Trump’s decision. The American Medical Association noted that cutting funds to the WHO is “dangerous”. More than 9,000 U.S. health care workers have tested positive for the virus according to the CDC.  New York saw a major increase in fatalities. As they updated counts to include people who had not tested positive for the virus, but it was the assumed cause of death. California recorded over 1500 new cases yesterday, their highest daily number. The Governor said the state would be re-opened based on “public health, not politics”, when it was able to do six things: expand testing, protect high risk groups, have enough PPE for future surges, continue to look for therapies and treatments, set social distancing guidelines in schools and businesses and allow reinstatement of stay at home orders if necessary.   Maine has extended their state of emergency to May 15th.  Cases in Russia continue to rise at an aggressive rate and are nearing 25,000. The Health Ministry in Guatemala relayed that between 50 and 70% of those deported from the U.S. back to Guatemala have tested positive for the virus, according to The Washington Post. The Dubai World Trade Center has been turned in to a 3,000-bed hospital.  New Zealand’s Prime Minister will take a 20% pay cut. The Tour De France has been postponed, the three-week bike race will now begin on August 29th.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Tuesday April 14th, 2020. Global cases of the virus are approaching 2 million. The US has over one fourth them. California, Washington and Oregon will join together in a plan to slowly reopen their states. New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Rhode Island and Massachusetts will do the same. President Trump, insisted that The Governor’s did not have the power, he did. Then incorrectly stated “When somebody is President of The United States, the authority is total”. Wyoming reported their first fatality due to COVID-19, resulting in a death from the virus in all 50 states. A sailor from the USS Theodore Roosevelt has died as a result of the virus. CNN reports, The USS Harry Truman, which deployed in November, will extend its time at sea to remain virus free. The Supreme Court will start hearing cases via teleconference in May. The justices will work remotely. The Census Bureau is asking for a four-month extension for data delivery due to the pandemic. The House of Representatives will delay going back in session until early next month. In India, the Prime Minster, has extended the nationwide lockdown to May 3rd, France until the 11th. More than 4,000 have died in Belgium, making it one of the hardest hit countries in Europe. The Turkish Parliament passed a law that allows for the release of up to 90,000 prisoners, reports The New York Times.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411 with a special episode to tell you about a new documentary podcast that tells the stories of life in the time of Coronavirus, it is called Telescope. Hosted by Jonathan Hirsch, creator of Dear Franklin Jones. Telescope tells stories we need right now...stories of human struggle, resilience, and connection. To listen to the show, just search for Telescope in Apple Podcasts or whenever you listen. You can get new episodes of Telescope every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.Now here’s a sample of Telescope. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Monday April 13th, 2020.  Coronavirus task force member, Dr. Fauci, seemed to confirm a New York Times report that officials recommended social distancing to The White House in February, but the idea was dismissed. On Sunday, The President’s frustration with the doctor seemed to grow as he reposted a twitter message that contained “Time to #fire Fauci”, noted The New York Times.  A Smithfield pork processing plant in South Dakota will close after 238 workers tested positive for COVID-19. Cases continue to rise on the USS Theodore Roosevelt, there are now 585.  43,000 Walt Disney World employees will be temporarily furloughed. Global cases have surpassed 1.8 million.   China reported the largest increase in new cases since early March, most from people returning from other countries, reports The Washington Post. Russia reported another record increase in new daily cases, with over 2500.  A nurse’s union in the UK, is advising members, that they can refuse to treat patients as a “last resort” if they are not provided appropriate personal protective equipment, relays CNN. In the Netherlands, over 25% of all confirmed cases, are healthcare workers, according to data from the Dutch National Institute for Public Health. India’s national lockdown is set to expire tomorrow. Some states, have already extended the lockdown. In Italy, the number of intensive care cases and fatalities continue to decline.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Sunday April 12th, 2020.  Wyoming’s Disaster Declaration has been approved, making this the first time in history that every state and territory in the U.S. is under a Disaster Declaration. With over 20,000 COVID-19 related fatalities, the U.S. has passed Italy for most deaths. More than 300 inmates and 200 employees at Chicago’s Cook County Jail have tested positive for the virus. On the USS Theodore Roosevelt, 550 have tested positive for the virus. The Kansas Supreme Court upheld The Governor’s ban on gatherings of 10 or more people, this will affect religious gatherings in the state. South Korea will test all travelers from the U.S. for Coronavirus upon arrival in the country. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been released from the hospital. Russia and Japan confirm their largest number of new daily cases. Venezuela will extend the national state of alarm for 30 days.  Saudi Arabia has indefinitely extended the nationwide curfew. Singapore is mandating the use of face masks while in public. Spain will begin to loosen some of the most aggressive restrictions on resident’s movement this week. From a nearly empty St. Peter’s Basilica, The Pope celebrated Easter Mass, stating, “This is not the time for indifference, because the whole world is suffering and needs to be united in facing the pandemic”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Saturday April 11th, 2020.  There are more than half a million cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. Friday saw the highest death toll to date with 2,074 fatalities.   A prominent coronavirus model suggests that New York and New Jersey, have passed their peak of fatalities due to the virus. California is expected to peak on the 15th, Pennsylvania on the 17th, Florida on the 27th and Texas on the 28th. The President is considering lifting social distancing restrictions on May 1st. The Director of The Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation at The University of Washington said “If we were to stop at the national level May 1,” “we’re seeing a return to almost where we are now sometime in July” reports The New York Times. Three crew members on the Navy Hospital Ship Mercy, docked in LA, have tested positive for the virus. Boeing will bring 2500 of their 70,000 Puget Sound, Washington employees back to work Monday, relays CNN. Coronavirus deaths nearly tripled in Brazil this week, as President Bolsonaro continues to reject containment measures. Ecuador reported nearly 2200 new cases in a 24-hour period. India and Japan both reported their largest single day increase in cases. The Philippines have banned healthcare workers from working in other countries. Australian and New Zealand passengers have been evacuated from the Greg Mortimer cruise ship off the coast of Uruguay, where the ship has been anchored since early April. One hundred twenty-seven of the two hundred seventeen on board tested positive for the virus.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Friday April 10th, 2020.  Coronavirus task force member, Dr. Fauci, told CNN, that the test to see if someone had been infected and had some level of immunity would be available “within a week or so”. The Trump Administration would like to open much of the country by May 1st, reports The Washington Post. Health experts and economists raise concerns of a resurgence if the country is re-opened too quickly. In the U.S. more than 16,000 have already died due to the virus. Sunday is predicted to be the day with our highest fatality rate, according to a model from The University of Washington. Two more aircraft carriers are reporting COVID-19 on board. Those are in addition to the USS Theodore Roosevelt, where more than 400 COVID-19 cases have been confirmed. Pennsylvania had nearly 2,000 new cases yesterday, their largest single day jump. New Jersey’s peak could hit in the next 2 to 3 days, according to their commissioner of health. Sixteen states have closed school for the rest of the academic year. There are more than 1.6 million cases globally as the death toll nears 100,000. EU finance ministers have agreed to a $590 billion rescue package. Italy will extend their lockdown through May 3rd. France reports 50 cases of COVID-19 onboard the aircraft carrier, Charles De Gaulle. Russia reported more than 1700 new cases Friday, their highest daily number. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is out of Intensive Care. He remains in the hospital and is said to be in “good spirits”.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Thursday April 9th, 2020.  The Director of the World Health Organization, said “countries need to unify or risk worsening the coronavirus pandemic”.  New York State has more cases than any country in the world outside of the U.S.  Data in New York shows that cases are higher among Black and Hispanic residents. Governor Cuomo said the state will begin more testing in minority communities. In Arkansas, The Governor, is forbidding cities from creating their own lockdown policies. The Cook County Jail is now the largest known source of U.S. infections, reports The New York Times, with 387 cases linked to the jail. The CDC has issued guidelines for essential workers that have been exposed to the virus but are asymptomatic. These include, taking their temperature before entering the workplace, wearing a mask at all times and practicing social distancing. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson remains in Intensive Care, as the country witnesses its highest daily fatality toll, losing 938 lives. Russia reported more than 1,000 cases yesterday.  The Italian Prime Minister said the European Union has to loosen budget rules, if they don’t it could mean “the end of Europe”, relays CNN.  The Spanish Prime Minister told Parliament “we have reached the peak and now the de-escalation begins”, as he asked for the state of emergency to be extended to the 26th. The Czech Republic has begun lifting restrictions, including opening some stores and allowing essential travel outside of the country. New Zealand reports its 4th day of declining new cases.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info and new hotspots… Just the facts… for Wednesday April 8th, 2020.  The U.S. had more deaths yesterday, than any other country has seen in one day, with more than 1,850 COVID-19 related. Louisiana, New Jersey and New York all record their highest daily rate of fatalities. U.S. cases are closing in on 400,000. New York State has the 3rd highest number of cases in the world, behind the United States and Spain. Treasury Secretary Mnuchin will ask Congress to commit an additional 200 billion in funding for the emergency small business loan program. The President has replaced the chairman of the watchdog panel created to oversee the 2 trillion-dollar stimulus package. The Acting Secretary of The Navy has resigned, days after removing The Captain of the USS Theodore Roosevelt for “breach of command” in relation to his concerns about the coronavirus on his ship. Two hundred thirty crew members aboard the aircraft carrier have tested positive for COVID-19. The Illinois Department of Corrections released over 1100 low risk prisoners on Tuesday. Los Angeles has ordered all residents to wear a mask when visiting essential businesses. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson remains in Intensive Care. Ethiopia has declared a “state of emergency”. Mumbai, India will extend their lockdown through the end of the month.  Israel will shut down roads and ban intercity travel for two days during Passover. Ecuador is building new cemeteries to accommodate coronavirus victims. Jack Dorsey, the Chief Executive of Twitter and Square plans on donating 1 billion to coronavirus relief programs. After 76 days, the lockdown in Wuhan, China, where the outbreak began, has officially ended. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Tuesday April 7th, 2020.  The White House was warned about the potential of the Coronavirus becoming a pandemic in a memo from Trade Adviser Peter Navarro, dated January 29th.  A watchdog report, conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that hospitals across the country are facing shortages of testing supplies, ventilators, PPE and staff.  Wisconsin’s Supreme Court blocked The Governor’s order to postpone today’s election. South Carolina has issued a “stay at home order”. The Army will temporarily delay sending new recruits to basic training. Nissan will furlough about 10,000 workers from their Mississippi and Tennessee plants.  The Navy Hospital ship docked in New York City, has been approved to treat coronavirus patients. 3M will supply 55 million N95 respirator masks per month for the U.S. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, has been moved to Intensive Care, he has appointed the British Foreign Secretary to “deputize for him where necessary”. The Japanese Prime Minster has declared a “State of Emergency”. After a week long decline, Spain has an increase in new cases and fatalities. Monday saw France’s highest death toll yet, with 613 fatalities. Face masks are now mandatory in parts of France and all of Ukraine.  In New Zealand, the Health Minister was demoted after breaking lock-down rules. Austria and Denmark plan to lift some restrictions next week. No deaths were reported in mainland China over the last 24 hours for the first time since January.  And only 32 new cases were reported, all had returned from overseas.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Monday April 6th, 2020.   The Surgeon General has warned that the coming week, “is going to be the hardest and saddest week of most American’s lives” and compared it to Pearl Harbor and 9/11. Over 9600 U.S. fatalities have been reported. Health officials and experts say the death toll from the virus is most likely much higher as only cases confirmed by laboratory tests are being counted, notes The Washington Post. Texas will screen drivers coming from Louisiana and enforce a two-week quarantine. Washington State is returning more than 400 ventilators to the federal stock pile, so states with a bigger need can use them. The former Captain of the USS Roosevelt has tested positive for COVID-19, he was removed from his post last week. There are 155 confirmed cases on the aircraft carrier. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson spent the night in the hospital as a “precautionary step”, he tested positive for COVID-19 ten days ago. The Japanese Prime Minster will declare a state of emergency and is expected to announce a 989-billion-dollar relief package, relays The Guardian. In Dubai, residents must apply online for a “police permit” to leave their homes. CNN reports dozens of doctors and health care workers arrested in Pakistan, while protesting lack of PPE. Spain and Italy continue to see declines in death rates and France’s hospital admissions have gone down, bringing hope that the lockdowns in these countries have been working. New infections in South Korea dropped below 50. Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer has resigned after violating lockdown rules. Ireland’s Prime Minister has re-registered as a medical practitioner and will work directly with patients. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Sunday April 5th, 2020. Saturday saw more than 33,000 cases in the U.S. and more than 1300 deaths reported. Mortuaries in New Orleans are full. The White House is concerned about new “hot spots” in Pennsylvania, Colorado and Washington DC.   Dr. Brix, White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator, relayed “The next two weeks are extraordinarily important” and cautioned against going out, even to the store. The U.S. is sending evacuation flights for American citizens in India, reports CNN.    The U.S. embassy in Japan has told Americans to leave the country, due to a possible significant increase of cases there. The Japanese Prime Minister is under pressure to declare a state of emergency, according to The Washington Post. A second refugee camp in Greece has been quarantined, after a resident tested positive. Dubai has enacted a 24 hour lockdown for two weeks. In Ecuador, bodies are being left in the streets.  In Spain, growth of the virus seems to be slowing, as the Prime Minister seeks to extend the nationwide lockdown through the end of April.  A leading epidemiologist in the UK, expects COVID-19 cases to peak there in the next 7 to 10 days.  Australia’s Chief Medical Officer is hopeful, after seeing fewer cases over the last few days, that they may be flattening the curve.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Saturday April 4th, 2020. The CDC now recommends that Americans wear a non-surgical mask while in public. The President noted that he will not wear one. The U.S. reported more than 30,000 cases in one day. Bringing the total to 278,458, more than twice the number of cases of Spain, who have the second highest total. New York State has the 4th highest number of cases in the world. New York City reported more than 6500 cases in a 24-hour period. FEMA has allocated 1.1 billion dollars in federal support to help New York State. Missouri has issued a “stay at home order”. The Attorney General notified federal prisons to “maximize early release programs” for vulnerable inmates, according to CNN. The UK will continue lockdown measures for a number of weeks, as it appears the virus is slowing there. Germany and Thailand also note a slowing of the virus spread. New Zealand’s lockdown measures appear to be working. The Washington Post relays, they could be hitting their coronavirus peak just ten days after going in to lockdown.  Pakistan has extended their lockdown for two weeks. Bahrain International Airport will allow all passengers of all nationalities to transit through their airport, but will still limit who can enter the country. The Australian Immigration Minister has recommended that international tourists “take the next flight home”.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Friday April 3rd, 2020. There are more than 1 million cases of COVID-19 worldwide.  The U.S. has over 245,000, with more than 6,000 fatalities. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, told CNN that he doesn’t understand why every state hasn’t issued a stay at home order. The CDC is expected to recommend that Americans wear cloth masks in public. The Captain of the USS Roosevelt has been removed from duty, days after he asked Washington DC for help with the COVID-19 outbreak on his ship. The acting Secretary of the Navy said he went outside of his chain of command.  Treasury Secretary Mnuchin said that those with direct deposit on file with the IRS will get their stimulus checks within 14 days. The Democratic National Convention has been rescheduled to August. Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, is donating 100 million to food banks across the country.Spain has passed Italy with reported number of cases. Milan, is closing its main crematorium until the end of the month, to allow workers to catch up with the backlog of virus victims, reports CBS News. India has barricaded one of Asia’s largest slums after two deaths from the virus were reported in Dharavi neighborhood in Mumbai. Eight containment zones have been set up. No one is being allowed in or out, relays The Guardian. Singapore will close schools and non-essential businesses for a month. Peru has joined Panama in assigning specific days for each gender to be allowed out for essential business. The UK is working on plans for an “immunity passport” which “would allow those who have recovered and carry specific antibodies identifiable by a blood tests” to return to work, notes The New York Times.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Thursday April 2nd, 2020. Louisiana and Georgia have the top six counties with the highest deaths per capita due to COVID-19, according to The Washington Post, New York County is 7th. FEMA relayed that the emergency stockpile of PPE is almost gone. Some ventilators sent from the federal stockpile to hospitals do not work, reports The New York Times. Mississippi and Georgia have issued “stay at home” mandates.  The President stated Wednesday that he has no plans to issue a National Stay at Home order. Sailors from the USS Roosevelt, who test negative for the virus, will be taken to hotels in Guam to self-quarantine for 14 days. There are currently 93 cases on board the ship that has a crew of more than 4,000. The weekly number of unemployment filings will be released today and most estimates have it near 5 million. Coronavirus task force member, Dr. Fauci, said that social distancing can be relaxed once there are no new infections or deaths, “but the real turning point won’t come until we have a vaccine”.   CNN reports that the Top U.S. General in South Korea, does not believe North Korea has no cases of COVID-19. He notes that “for about 30 days in February, early March” the military was locked down and extreme measures were taken on their border crossings. A refugee camp in Greece has been placed on a 2-week quarantine, with no one allowed in or out. The camp is home to more than 2,000. Italy, Germany and Pakistan will extend their lockdowns. The Israeli Prime Minister will self-quarantine for a week, after the Country’s Health Minister tested positive. The Philippine Ambassador to Lebanon has died due to complications from COVID-19. The President of The Philippines warns that anyone who breaks quarantine and is “unruly” could be shot.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Wednesday April 1st, 2020. California, Louisiana, Michigan, New Jersey and New York all reported more than 1,000 new cases on Tuesday, adding to the over 189,000 cases in the U.S. Maine and Texas announce “stay at home orders” for the month of April. Louisiana has extended theirs. The White House announced that even with social distancing measures, the virus could kill up to 240,000 in the U.S. The Army has issued a voluntary recall to about 10,000 members with specific medical skills. Small business owners, effected by COVID-19, will be able to apply for loans starting Friday as part of the 2 Trillion-dollar stimulus package. The Governor of California said based on modeling, the peak number of cases in his state will hit in mid-May. The Secretary General of The United Nations said “Covid-19 is the greatest test that we have faced together since the formation of the United Nations”. The U.N. is calling for a coordinated, international response to ramp up health care spending and cushion the blow to people around the world who have been hurt by the sharp economic downturn, reports the New York Times. Italy will extend lockdown measures through April 13th. Indonesia will turn a former war refugee camp on an uninhabited island in to a hospital for COVID-19 patients, relays The Guardian. China has started including asymptomatic cases in their reporting, leading to a large increase in cases there on Wednesday, according to their National Health Commission. A government official in Saudi Arabia is asking Muslims around the world to delay their annual pilgrimage to Mecca in late July, due to concerns over virus spread.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Tuesday March 31st, 2020. Arizona, Virginia and Washington DC have issued “stay at home orders”. There are now over two hundred fifty-six million Americans under some type of order, relays CNN. There were over 575 deaths due to the virus in the U.S. on Monday, driving total fatalities over 3,100. The first U.S. Service member has died from COVID-19, the National Guardsman was from New Jersey. At a White House briefing, Dr. Fauci said it is likely there will be another outbreak in the fall. Governor Cuomo of New York is asking health care workers in other states to help in New York if they are not dealing with the crisis at home. Texas prison inmates are suing for more access to hand sanitizer, soap and paper towels. An inmate died of the virus in Illinois. In Chicago part of a convention center will be converted in to a care facility. Ford & GE will team up to produce ventilators.  Johnson and Johnson hope to begin testing on a vaccine by September. Worldwide infections have passed 800,000, with more than 38,000 fatalities. The Hungarian Parliament approved The Prime Minister’s “rule by decree” measure. Amnesty International had warned against it. The Chief Medical officer in the UK, said it could be six months or more before things get back to normal, and that lockdowns will be assessed every 3 weeks, according to The New York Times. Japan has issued travel warnings for 73 countries. Vietnam will begin a 15 day “stay at home” order, with all non-essential businesses to close. In Panama, men and women will only be allowed to leave home on different days, relays The Guardian.  Australia and New Zealand report a higher percentage of young people between 20-29 with infections, than in other countries.  One potential explanation is that younger groups in those countries tend to travel overseas more.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Monday March 30th, 2020. The President announced that he will extend social distancing guidelines through April 30th, noting that the peak death rate will likely hit in two weeks. There are more than 143,000 cases in the U.S. and over 2500 fatalities. White House Task Force member Dr Fauci, said it is “entirely conceivable” that more than 1 million in the U.S. could be infected, with up to 100,000 deaths. But stated “What we’re trying to do is not let that happen”. The Governor of Illinois said there is not enough capacity in his state for anticipated patient needs. Dallas is setting up a convention center to act as a hospital for coronavirus patients. Seattle is seeing evidence that early containment strategies are working, with the spread of the virus slowing and death rates lower than other states, report The New York Times.  The FDA has issued limited emergency use of two drugs, commonly used to treat malaria. They may offer some benefit for COVID-19 patients. The Parliament in Hungary will vote today on whether or not the Prime Minister should be allowed to “rule by decree”, Amnesty International has warned against the move, relays CNN. Spain will move to “hibernation” to slow the virus; Italy extends their national lockdown. Moscow has put a citywide quarantine in place. Zimbabwe has enacted a three-week lockdown. Two stadiums in Brazil are being converted in to field hospitals, according to The Guardian. The first results for multiple coronavirus treatments will be released later this week. The clinical trials of four potential treatments started a week ago with over 3,000 volunteers throughout Europe, reports CNN. British researchers have redesigned a CPAP machine, traditionally used for sleep apnea, to help treat coronavirus patients and ease the need for ventilators.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Sunday March 29th, 2020. The U.S. has over 2,100 fatalities, as cases climb toward 125,000. The CDC has issued a domestic travel warning for residents of Connecticut, New Jersey and New York, asking residents to refrain from non-essential travel for 14 days. Dr. Anthony Fauci told CNN that about 56% of new infections in the U.S. are coming from the New York City area. The Mayor of NYC relayed that they will run out of critical medical supplies by next Sunday, reports The Guardian. The Governor of Louisiana warns that his states health system is at risk of “being overwhelmed with patients in a matter of days” relays The Washington Post. Mexico is asking residents to stay at home until April 19th, cases there have increased 237% in one week. Switzerland recorded more than 1,000 new cases in a day. Australia is closing all public outdoor spaces and limiting gatherings to two people. The death toll in Italy is now over 10,000. The Chinese National Health Commission said that local transmission of the virus in China is “basically blocked” but cautions that a chance of a new outbreak from imported cases is still high.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Saturday March 28th, 2020. The United States is approaching 105,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19, about 1/6th of all global diagnoses. 44,635 confirmed cases are in New York State. Where Governor Cuomo, said they could be 21 days away from the peak of the virus.  The President signed the 2 trillion-dollar stimulus bill, the largest in U.S. history.  The bill is meant to boost the economy and provide assistance for individuals, families, small businesses and industries dealing with complications due to the virus.  The Chief Health Care officer of the AMA said that doctors of all specialties are joining the front lines. More than 190 cities of varying sizes need face masks, ventilators and other emergency equipment according to a survey conducted by The United States Conference of Mayors. General Motors will begin to produce ventilators in accordance with the Defense Production Act. The FDA has approved a test that can detect the virus in about 5 minutes, relays CBS. The President signed an order that could have former active duty military recalled into service, according to CNN. Italy recorded the biggest single day fatality count reported by any country, with 919, reports The Washington Post. Vietnam has closed non-essential services and limited group gatherings through mid-April.  The United Nations warns that domestic violence is likely to increase during lockdowns. In South Korea, the number of those who have recovered from the virus is now larger than those who are currently being treated.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has tested positive for COVID-19. According to his Twitter, he is self-isolating with mild symptoms. The United States has surpassed China and has the highest number of COVID-19 cases in the world with just under 86,000 and 1300 fatalities.   The House plans on voting on the 2 Trillion-dollar emergency relief bill today.  Detroit and Chicago are showing “a rapid increase in spread” according to a White House briefing.   The number of patients admitted to hospitals in New York jumped by 40% yesterday, notes The New York Times. A navy hospital ship will be deployed to NYC on Saturday. The Pentagon will work with a convention center in NYC to turn it in to a hospital by April 9th. In New Orleans, a convention center will also be used to house coronavirus patients. The Canadian Prime Minister confirmed that the US is requesting American troops be placed within 20 miles of the US-Canada border to help with border surveillance, relays CNN.A nurse at New York’s Mount Sinai West has died due to the virus, in Spain, healthcare workers make up more than 10% of cases and in Italy, 37 doctors have died, reports The New York Times. The death toll in Spain increased nearly 20% yesterday, while the growth rate of cases slightly declined. Real Madrid announced they will use their stadium to store medical supplies, according to The Washington Post. Russia has crossed 1,000 cases, reporting 196 new cases Friday. More than 700 of those cases are in Moscow. China has closed its borders to foreign nationals and those with resident visas in an effort to stop a second wave of the virus there. Australia will ask the military to help enforce isolation orders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Thursday March 26th, 2020. New York State has over 33,000 cases of COVID-19, making it the 6th highest case count in the world. Falling behind Germany and ahead of Iran.  With a unanimous vote, The Senate passed the 2 Trillion-dollar stimulus bill. The House votes Friday on the largest emergency aid package in U.S. history. The Trump administration plans to get checks to taxpayers within 3 weeks of when it is signed in to law. The fatality rate in the U.S. is rising dramatically, there were 233 deaths yesterday. As we pass 1,000 total fatalities and cases in the U.S. pass 69,000. Louisiana has the fastest growth of new cases in the world, relays the New York Times. The Governor of Louisiana said current case growth was comparable to Spain and Italy. California’s cases are doubling every three to four days, according to their top health official.  In Alaska, anyone arriving to the state, must self-quarantine for 14 days. Tesla will open their Buffalo NY factory to make ventilators, according to founder Elon Musk. A Holland America cruise ship reports 77 cases of COVID-19 on board. The ship’s departure was on March 7th, prior to the suspension of operations. Australia has ordered two cruise ships out of their waters and will quarantine passengers from a third reports The Washington Post. Russia saw a big increase in cases and in return Moscow has closed all non-essential businesses for a week. Iraq has extended their curfew and lockdown. As cases in Japan spike, a government Coronavirus task force has been set up. India has announced a 22.6-billion-dollar relief package. Over half a million UK residents have volunteered to support the National Health Service.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Wednesday March 25th, 2020. A deal has been reached on the historic 2 Trillion-dollar Coronavirus Relief Package; the vote will take place in the Senate later today. According to CNN, this is one of the most expensive and far reaching measures in the history of Congress. Monies will be set aside to help individuals and families, small businesses, hospitals and distressed companies.  President Trump stated that he would like the country “raring to go by Easter”. 15 states and 30 municipalities have issued some type of “Stay at Home” order, with more states expected to join soon.  Impacting more than 55% of the U.S. population. The White House has requested that anyone who left New York City in the last few days, should self-isolate for 14 days. The IOC announced that The Olympics and Paralympics will be postponed until 2021.India has put their entire 1.3 billion residents under complete 21-day lockdown. One third of the global population is now under orders to stay at home. Spain has asked NATO for help, reports The New York Times, as cases and the death toll continue to rise. Spain has now had more fatalities than China. Prince Charles has tested positive for Coronavirus, the 71-year-old is said to be displaying mild symptoms. The Queen remains in good health, according to The Palace. Pakistan will suspend all train and air travel in an attempt to control the spread of the virus. New Zealand has declared a “State of National Emergency”.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Tuesday March 24th, 2020. Over 100 people died in the U.S. yesterday due to COVID-19, bringing total fatalities to just under 600. With cases approaching 46,000, The World Health Organization said the U.S. has the potential to become the new epicenter of the global crisis, reports The Washington Post. The Senate remains in discussions on a 2 Trillion dollar stimulus bill. Hawaii, New Mexico and Oregon have joined 13 other states and cities with stay at home orders, effecting 43% of the U.S. population.  The Governor of Florida is requiring anyone on a flight originating in New York or New Jersey to self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. The IOC will hold a call later today to discuss potential postponement of The 2020 Summer Olympics.  The Secretary General of the United Nations is asking warring groups to hold a cease fire to help stop the spread of the virus, relays The Washington Post.  The United Kingdom is on lockdown, with all non-essential business closed and residents told to stay home. Thailand has declared a “State of Emergency”. Italy will allow police to use drones through April 3rd, to monitor movement during the lockdown, according to CNN. Iran will extend the temporary release of 85,000 prisoners, for 25 more days. China plans to lift the lockdown on Wuhan on April 8th. The remainder of Hubei province will be open and lift the majority of restrictions on Wednesday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Monday March 23rd, 2020. The National Guard has been activated and Federal disaster declarations announced for California, New York and Washington. Providing additional assistance for those states. New York State now has about 5% of all global cases according to The New York Times. New Jersey has passed California and Washington in number of diagnoses. They join Ohio, Louisiana and Delaware join 4 other states in issuing a stay at home order that effects more than 100 million U.S. residents.   Kentucky Senator Rand Paul has tested positive for COVID-19, 4 other Senators are in self-quarantine. The U.S. has more than 35,000 cases.  The 3rd most in the world, behind China and Italy. 75 districts across India have issued movement restrictions until March 31st, affecting more than 750 million residents. German Chancellor Merkel is in quarantine, after coming in contact with a doctor who tested positive for the virus. Spain has extended their State of Emergency for an additional 15 days. The UK has recommended that residents with serious health problems quarantine for 12 weeks. New Zealand will move to a level 4 alert on Wednesday, closing schools and non-essential businesses and asking residents to stay at home. Australia has closed non-essential businesses and asks residents to avoid domestic travel.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Sunday March 22nd, 2020. With over 26,000 afflicted, the U.S. is number 4 in terms of global cases. Behind China, Italy and Spain.  The FDA has approved a test that could detect COVID-19 in about 45 minutes. The CDC is offering a “Coronavirus Self-Checker” at cdc.gov. The program will ask questions about symptoms and then recommend next steps to help make decisions on appropriate medical care. Hawaii is mandating a 14 day quarantine for all incoming travelers, including residents. The Vice President and Mrs. Pence have taken the test for COVID-19, both have tested negative for the virus.  The global number of cases and fatalities have doubled in the last week. Nearly 5,000 have died in Italy as cases continue to grow. The Italian Prime Minister said this is “the most severe crisis since WWII”. The Spanish government is requesting an additional 15 days to be added to the state of emergency. Bolivia will enforce a 14 day total quarantine according to CNN. In Australia, New South Wales shuts non-essential services. Mainland China reported one new case, however Hubei where Wuhan is located has marked their 4th day with no new local infection, 14 consecutive days are needed to declare the outbreak over there.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Saturday March 21st, 2020. 75 million are being told to stay home and all non-essential businesses closed in Illinois, Connecticut, California and New York as cases in the U.S. move toward 20,000 with more than 250 deaths. LA County health officials are telling doctors to only test sick people if a diagnosis of COVID-19 would change their treatment, reports The Washington Post. A staff member in the Vice President’s office has tested positive for the virus. The U.S. has closed borders with Canada and Mexico to all but essential travel.The global diagnoses of COVID-19 is nearing 300,000 with over 11,000 fatalities. Spain’s number of cases rises to 24,926, passing Iran. The French Airforce is moving patients to the west from overcrowded hospitals in the east, according to CNN. In Colombia citizens will self-isolate for 19 days beginning March 24th. Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia has been temporarily closed. China has donated 100,000 testing kits to The Philippines. Food banks in the UK are struggling as thousands more are in need, major UK supermarkets have been asked to set aside supplies for them, according to The Guardian. China has marked their 3rd day with no new local infection, 14 consecutive days are needed to declare the outbreak over there.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Friday March 20th, 2020.  With over 14,000 cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. and over 200 fatalities, The Governor of California has issued a statewide “stay at home” order to 40 million citizens. The Mayor of New York City warns that the city is 2 to 3 weeks away from running out of medical supplies. Bank of America will allow customers experiencing hardship due to the virus to delay mortgage and credit card payments. The State Department has raised the global travel advisory to 4, do not travel.  U.S. citizens abroad should return home, or make plans to stay where they are for an indefinite amount of time.  The European Union is willing to extend the Brexit deadline in light of the pandemic. The EU’s chief Brexit negotiator has been diagnosed with COVID-19. Malaysia has placed a nationwide “Movement Control Order” starting Sunday, the armed forces will be used to enforce it. The president of the International Olympic Committee, said they are not considering cancelling the summer games. China has gone a 2nd day without a locally transmitted case. They need 14 days in a row to declare the outbreak over. Italy’s numbers continue to rise and as of today, they report 3,405 deaths, more than mainland China. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Thursday March 19th, 2020. The U.S. saw a more than 40% increase in cases in a 24 hour period according to CNN. There are now over 9,000 cases. China has reported no new local infections. Experts say they will need to have at least 14 consecutive days with no new local infections to consider the outbreak over, reports The New York Times. Two U.S. Congressman, have tested positive for the virus. Representative Diaz-Balart of Florida and Utah’s McAdams. In California, 3 more counties and the city of Fresno have issued a “shelter in place order” this effects nearly 1 in 4 Californian’s. The “Families First Coronavirus Response Act” which provides free testing and paid emergency leave, has been signed in to law. President Trump will invoke the Defense Production Act to provide needed medical supplies to fight the virus. U.S. Navy hospital ships will prepare to deploy to New York City, to provide additional hospital beds. The Department of Health & Human Services will permit doctors and medical professionals to practice across state lines. Italy recorded 475 deaths yesterday, its largest one day total. The lockdown measures that have been in place for Italians since the 9th will be extended. London has closed 40 tube stations and cut down bus service as they remind residents to avoid all non-essential travel, according to The Washington Post.  Australia and New Zealand have closed their borders to all but citizens and residents.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Wednesday March 18th, 2020.   Over 1,000 cases of COVID-19 were reported in the U.S. yesterday, bringing the total to over 6,000 with more than 110 fatalities. West Virginia and The U.S. Virgin Islands confirm their first cases of the virus. Kansas has closed schools for the remainder of the school year. California will likely follow suit. Sonoma County joined 7 other Northern California counties in requiring residents to shelter in place, bringing the total to 8 million. New York City is considering a similar action.  The FDA is stressing that there are NO food shortages and Americans should only buy enough food for the week ahead. The White House submitted an additional 45.8 billion in emergency funding to Congress on top of the 8.3 billion Congress approved earlier this month. Treasury Secretary Mnuchin relayed, that tax payments up to 1 million dollars can be deferred for 90 days. The Secretary also said, the White House is talking with Congress about sending checks to U.S. citizens to cushion the economic blow of the virus. As global cases near 200,000, a number of restrictions are being put in place to control the spread. All non-essential travel to the European Union has been banned for 30 days. Australia has declared a “Human biosecurity emergency”, which include a “do not travel” alert. Belgium residents are asked to stay home and limit contact with others. The Philippines have declared a “state of calamity” for 6 months, this will open up emergency funding. U.S./Canada border crossing limits are expected.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Tuesday March 17th, 2020.   Nearly 7 million residents of San Francisco and surrounding communities have been ordered to shelter in place. New Jersey has a statewide curfew, from 8PM to 5AM. Cases in the U.S. approach 5,000, with nearly 1,000 in New York State. The White House set out new guidelines to slow the spread. Asking citizens to keep gatherings to less than 10 people and avoid unnecessary travel. The New York Times notes that scientists tracking the spread believe that for every confirmed case in a community, there are 5 to 10 undetected cases. The U.S. Surgeon General has warned that if we do not take precautions like social distancing seriously and immediately, we are risking a fate similar to the situation in Italy. A vaccine trial for the virus administered the first dose to a participant Monday. Testing will take many more months.  Los Angeles County is releasing inmates with less than 30 days left on their sentence. The Kentucky Derby has been postponed.  Canada has closed their border to non-citizens. US Citizens and permanent residents are exempt. But all entering will face a 14 day quarantine. France began a country wide 15 day quarantine.  Germany asks their citizens to stay home as the country sees an increase of over 1,000 cases in a day. The city of London requests citizens to “stop all non-essential social contact”. Global case count: 183, 441. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Monday March 16th, 2020.   New York surpasses Washington State in number of cases of COVID-19 as the U.S. total passes 3,700. That figure is expected to rise as the Vice President announced that more than 2,000 labs will have high capacity testing by today. With 1.9 million tests available this week. The CDC is recommending that for the next 8 weeks, all events involving 50 people or more should cancel or postpone.  New guidelines on curfews and social distancing are expected today. New York City and Los Angeles schools, join 31 states in cancelling classes. Restrictions have been placed on dine in restaurants and bars, in a handful of cities and states, to stop the spread.  California has asked those 65 and older to shelter in their homes. The first case of COVID-19 has been diagnosed aboard a Navy Ship. The Peace Corps will halt operations and evacuate more than 7,000 from 60 locations, notes The Washington Post.  Argentina, Germany, Peru and Russia will close some or all borders. France has closed all but indispensable businesses and Spain has ordered all residents to remain home. The New York Times reports that there are now more cases of the virus outside of China, then in country. China records 80,680 infections, with more than 85,000 in the rest of the world. Global case count: 169,387 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Sunday March 15th, 2020.   The Vice President announced that all travel to the UK and Ireland will be suspended as the number of countries on that list grows to 28. The UK is advising against “all but essential travel to the U.S.”. Citizens returning to major U.S. airports in an effort to beat the travel restrictions, report long lines, confusion and crowded situations that could lead to unnecessary exposure, reports The Washington Post. Prisons could be at risk for the virus, as they have in other countries, reports The New York Times. The Bureau of Prisons has suspended all visitors for 30 days, including most lawyers. President Trump has been tested for COVID-19, the results are negative. West Virginia remains the only state without a confirmed case, as numbers in the U.S. approach 3,000 with 59 fatalities.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 411, the latest COVID-19 info… Just the facts… for Saturday March 14th, 2020. President Trump has declared a national emergency. This allows up to 50 billion in funds for disaster relief. FEMA will coordinate disaster response and aid state and local governments. The House passed the “Family’s First: Coronavirus Response Act” in the early hours of Saturday morning. According to speaker Pelosi, the bill will provide "free coronavirus testing for everyone who needs a test, including the uninsured." As well as "paid emergency leave with two weeks of paid sick leave and up to three months of paid family and medical leave." The Senate will vote on the bill next week. West Virginia is the only state without a confirmed case of the virus, as total cases rise to 2,195 with 49 fatalities. 46,000 schools across the U.S. have closed, effecting nearly 21 million students.The World Health Organization is urging countries to act quickly and aggressively test to fight the virus. CNN reports that Iran’s armed forces will begin clearing public spaces. With only essential business’ remaining open. Italy has suspended all civilian flight operations. The Louvre in Paris has closed. Spain’s Prime Minister declared a 15 day state of emergency. As that country reported a 1500 case increase on Saturday. Bringing total cases in Spain to 5,753 according to The Washington Post. The Post also notes that Guatemala will ban citizens of the U.S., Canada and several European and Asian countries from entering. In an effort to contain the virus, as they report their first case of COVID-19. Global case total: 147, 838. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

031320 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1, the latest Coronavirus info.  Just the facts for Friday March 13th, 2020. Alaska reports its first case as U.S. totals rise to 1,701 in 46 states and the District of Columbia.  41 people have died.  Closings continue worldwide in an effort to contain the virus.  All schools in Kentucky, Maryland, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon and Washington State will close for several weeks. Major League Baseball joins the NHL, the NBA and NCAA tournament basketball in suspending or cancelling events.  NASCAR will race without fans.  Broadway, The Smithsonian, Disney World and Disneyland will close to combat the spread.  Nepal has canceled climbing expeditions on Mount Everest, relays The Washington Post.  The House votes today on a relief package to help workers and patients effected by the virus.  The package will include free virus testing and paid sick leave.  On Thursday, the S&P 500 suffered its biggest daily drop since “Black Monday” in 1987.  Sophie Trudeau, the wife of the Canadian Prime Minister, has tested positive for the virus.  The Prime Minister will self-isolate.  In the U.S., the White House reports that neither The President nor Vice President would be tested after coming in contact with a Brazilian official who tested positive for COVID-19.  Australia’s home affairs minister has tested positive, just a few days after meeting with Attorney General William Barr and Ivanka Trump.Global case count 135, 232.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 1,701 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 46 states and the District of Columbia.Alaska reports their first case.  Known active locations, with 10 or more cases, are as follows: Washington 420, New York 328, California 252, Massachusetts 108, Colorado 49, Florida 45, Texas 36, Illinois 32, Georgia 31, New Jersey and Oregon 29, Nebraska 24, Tennessee 18, Virginia 17, Iowa 16, North Carolina 15, Louisiana 14, Maryland 13, Indiana, Michigan, South Carolina 12, Kentucky 11, District of Columbia and Nevada 10.Global cases outside of China with 20 or more cases: Italy 15,113, Iran 10,075, Republic of Korea 7,869,  Spain 3,864, Germany 3,059, France 2,879, Switzerland 858, Denmark 788, Norway 702, Japan 639, Netherlands 614, Sweden 599, United Kingdom 593, Belgium 399, Austria 302, Qatar 262, Bahrain 189, Singapore 187, Malaysia 149, Greece 133, Israel 131, Australia 128, Canada and Czech Republic 117, Iceland 103, Slovenia 89, United Arab Emirates 85, Egypt and Kuwait 80, Iraq 79, Thailand 75, India 74, San Marino 69, Lebanon 66, Finland and Portugal 59, Brazil and Philippines 52, Poland and Romania 49, Saudi Arabia 45, Ireland 43, Vietnam 39, Indonesia 34, Russian Federation 28, Algeria 26,  Georgia 24, Albania and Chile 23, Cosa Rica 22, Pakistan 20.  Cote d’Ivoire, French Polynesia, Honduras and Turkey all report their first cases.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

031220 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1, the latest Coronavirus info.  Just the facts for Thursday March 12th, 2020. The World Health Organization has officially declared COVID-19 to be a global pandemic, which means “the worldwide spread of a new disease”.  NBC News reports that the attending physician of Congress and the Supreme Court, told senate staff that he expects 70 million to 150 million in the U.S. will contract the virus.  Of those, 80% will be fine.  President Trump announced that all travel from Europe to the U.S. will be suspended for 30 days.  The European Commission condemned the move, noting ““The coronavirus is a global crisis, not limited to any continent and it requires cooperation rather than unilateral action”.  The restrictions impact 26 countries and “did not appear to be tied to the severity of outbreaks in individual countries”, reports the New York Times.The NBA has suspended the season after a player for the Utah Jazz tested positive, the NCAA will close all tournament basketball games to fans.  Actors Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson have tested positive for the virus while traveling in Australia.  Six more states report their first cases, bringing the total number in the U.S. to 1,323 in 44 states and the District of Columbia.  There have been 38 deaths, the majority in Washington State.  Global case total, 127,749.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 1323 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 44 states and the District of Columbia.Arkansas, Delaware, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Dakota and Wyoming all report their first cases.  Known active locations, with 10 or more cases, are as follows: Washington 335, New York 216, California 201, Massachusetts 95,  Texas and Colorado 33, Georgia 31, Florida 26, Illinois 25, Nebraska and New Jersey 23, Oregon 20, Pennsylvania 16, Iowa 14, Maryland and Louisiana 13, Indiana 11, District of Columbia and South Carolina 10.Global cases outside of China with 20 or more cases: Italy 12,462, Iran 10,075, Republic of Korea 7,869,  France 2,284, Spain 2,277, Germany 2,078, Switzerland 652, Japan 639, Norway 632, Netherlands 503, Sweden 500, United Kingdom 459, Belgium 314, Austria 302, Qatar 262, Bahrain 195, Singapore 178, Malaysia 149, Australia 128, Israel 127, Canada 117, Greece 99, Czech Republic 94, Iceland 85, Kuwait 80, United Arab Emirates 74, India 73, Iraq 71, Thailand 70, San Marino 69, Egypt 67, Lebanon 61, Finland and Portugal 59, Slovenia 57, Brazil and Philippines 52, Romania 49, Poland 47, Saudi Arabia 45, Ireland 43, Vietnam 39, Indonesia 38, Russian Federation 28, Algeria and Georgia 24, Chile 23, Cosa Rica 22, Pakistan 20.  Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Jamaica all reported their first cases.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

031120 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Wednesday March 11th, 2020.  The U.S. now has more than 1,000 cases of COVID-19 in 38 states and the District of Columbia. Michigan and South Dakota report their first infections. There have been 31 fatalities.  The Governor of Massachusetts has declared a “State of Emergency” as cases in the state have more than doubled.  70 of the 92 cases are related to employees of a biotech company.  The Wall Street Journal reports that the U.S. Treasury may push back the April 15th tax deadline due to the virus.  Google has recommended that all of their employees in North America work from home for the next month, reports CNN.  In an effort to contain the virus in New Rochelle, New York state has set up a 1 mile containment zone and called in the National Guard for assistance.  Coachella and Stagecoach, two large outdoor music festivals, are delaying the shows from April to October. Global cases total, 120,944.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 1039 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 38 states and the District of Columbia.Known active locations, are as follows: Washington 279, California 178, New York 142,  Massachusetts 92,  Texas 30, Florida 23, Georgia 22, Illinois 19, Colorado 17, Nebraska 16, New Jersey 15, Oregon 14, Iowa 13, Pennsylvania 12, Maryland and South Carolina 9, Kentucky and Virginia 8, North Carolina and Tennessee 7, Arizona, Indiana, Louisiana 6, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, South Dakota 5,  District of Columbia, Nevada 4, Minnesota, Ohio, Utah, Wisconsin 3, Connecticut, Hawaii, Michigan, Oklahoma 2, Kansas, Missouri, Vermont 1. Global cases outside of China with 10 or more cases: Italy 10, 149, Iran 9,000, Republic of Korea 7,755,  France 1,784, Spain 1,736, Germany 1,613, Japan 581, Switzerland 491, Norway 401, Netherlands and United Kingdom 382, Sweden 355, Denmark 340, Belgium 267, Austria 206, Bahrain 189, Singapore 160, Malaysia 129, Australia 107, Canada 93, Greece 89, Iceland 81, Israel 76, United Arab Emirates 74, Kuwait 72, Iraq 71, Czech Republic 63, India and San Marino 60, Egypt and Thailand 59, Lebanon 52, Philippines 49, Portugal 41, Finland 40, Vietnam 38, Brazil, Ireland and Slovenia 34, Indonesia 27, Palestine 26, Poland and Romania 25, Qatar 24, Georgia 23, Algeria, Russian Federation and Saudi Arabia 20, Argentina and Pakistan 19, Oman 18,  Chile and Ecuador 17, Croatia 15, Costa Rica, Estonia and South Africa 13, Hungary and Serbia 12, Azerbaijan and Peru 11, Albania 10.  Brunei, Guernsey, Mongolia and Panama all report their first cases.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

031020 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Tuesday March 10th, 2020.  Cases in China seem to be slowing, with 70% of those infected recovering.  Meanwhile, Italy has put the entire country on lockdown through April 3rd, in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19.  Diagnoses in Italy have surpassed 9,000, with 463 deaths.Overtaking South Korea as the largest number of cases outside of mainland China.  The BBC reports that Israel will require all persons arriving in country to observe a 14 day quarantine, this includes Israeli citizens. Ohio and Louisiana, join the list of states with confirmed cases, bringing total U.S. cases to 755 in 36 states and the District of Columbia, 26 deaths have been reported.  St. Patrick’s Day celebrations have been cancelled in Dublin and Boston.  As UC Berkley, NYU and The Ohio State, join a growing list of schools and universities, to suspend in person classes, in favor of online learning.  Global case count, 114,595.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 755 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 36 states and the District of Columbia.Known active locations, are as follows: Washington 179, California 167, New York 142,  Massachusetts 28,  Texas 24, Georgia and Nebraska 16, Florida 15, Oregon 13, Colorado 12, Illinois and New Jersey 11, Pennsylvania 10, Iowa 8, North and South Carolina 7, Arizona, Kentucky, Maryland 6, Virginia 5, District of Columbia, Indiana, New Hampshire, Nevada 4, Ohio, Rhode Island, Tennessee 3, Connecticut, Hawaii, Minnesota, Utah, Wisconsin 2, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, Vermont 1. Global cases outside of China with 10 or more cases: Italy 9,172, Republic of Korea 7,513,  Iran 7,161, France 1,412, Spain 1,235, Germany 1,225, Japan 530, Switzerland 374, Netherlands and United Kingdom 321, Sweden 264, Belgium 239, Norway 227, Singapore 160, Austria 157, Malaysia 117, Denmark 113, Bahrain 109, Australia 91, Greece 89, Canada 77, United Arab Emirates 74, Iraq 71, Kuwait 69, Iceland 65, Iraq 60, Egypt 59, India 56, Thailand 53, San Marino 51, Israel 50, Lebanon 41, Czech Republic and Finland 40, Portugal 39, Philippines 33, Vietnam 31, Brazil 30, Palestine and Slovenia 25, Ireland 24, Algeria, Russian Federation and Saudi Arabia 20, Indonesia 19, Oman and Qatar 18, Argentina, Poland, Romania 17, Pakistan 16, Ecuador and Georgia 15, Chile, Croatia, 13, Estonia 12.  Albania, Bangladesh, Cyprus and Paraguay all report their first cases.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

030920 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Monday March 9th, 2020.  U.S. diagnoses of COVID-19 rose by more than 100 in 24 hours, as Connecticut, Iowa and Vermont confirm their first patients.Numbers in New York State continue to rise as totals top 100.  There are now 564 cases reported in 34 states and the District of Columbia, with 22 fatalities.  The Grand Princess Cruise ship will dock in Oakland, California later today.  1000 California residents will quarantine on military bases in state, the remainder of passengers will quarantine in Texas and Georgia, reports CNN.  The State Department has advised Americans against traveling on cruise ships as they may present a higher risk of exposure.  Italy, one of the hardest hit countries outside of China, has quarantined almost 16 million people in the Northern and Central regions until early April.  Global case total is 111,224. The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 564 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 34 states and the District of Columbia.Known active locations, are as follows: Washington 141, California 111, New York 106,  Massachusetts 28, Texas 23, Nebraska 16, Florida and Oregon 13, Georgia 11,  Colorado 8, Illinois 7,New Jersey, Pennsylvania and South Carolina 6, Arizona and Maryland 5, New Hampshire, Nevada, Kentucky 4, Iowa, Rhode Island, Tennessee 3, Hawaii, Indiana, Minnesota, North Carolina, Utah and Virginia 2, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Vermont and Wisconsin 1. Global cases outside of China with 10 or more cases: Republic of Korea 7,478, Italy 7,375, Iran 7,161, France 1,209, Germany 1,151, Spain 911, Japan 511, Switzerland 332, United Kingdom 280, Netherlands 265, Belgium 239, Sweden 203, Norway 176, Singapore 150, Canada 132, Malaysia 117, Austria 112, , Bahrain 95, Australia 76, Greece 73, Kuwait 64, Iraq 60, Iceland 58, Egypt 55, Thailand 50, United Arab Emirates 45, India 43, Israel 39, San Marino 36, Denmark 35, Lebanon 32, Czech Republic 31, Finland, Portugal and Vietnam 30, Brazil 25, Palestine 22, Ireland 21, Algeria and Philippines 20, Qatar 18, Russian Federation 17, Oman and Slovenia 16, Ecuador, Georgia, Poland, Romania and Saudi Arabia 15, Argentina and Croatia 12, Estonia 10.  Bulgaria, Costa Rica, French Guiana, Malta, Martinique, and Republic of Moldova all reported their first cases.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 030820 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Sunday March 8th, 2020.  Italy has quarantined up to 16 million people in the Central and Northern provinces, including the cities of Milan and Venice.As cases of COVID-19 grew by more than 1,200 on Saturday to 5,883.  The quarantine, which will last until April 3rd, is one of the most aggressive steps taken outside of China, relays the BBC.  Virginia, Washington DC, Missouri and Kanas are the latest states to confirm COVID-19 within their borders. The United States has 437 cases in 32 states and The District of Columbia. Washington State announces two additional deaths, bringing total fatalities in the U.S. to 19.States not yet infected are preparing by increasing their testing capacity and cutting down on large gatherings, according to The New York Times.  The Grand Princess Cruise ship, which had been waiting off the coast of California, will be allowed to dock in Oakland, California on Monday.  The 3500 on board will then enter a two week quarantine.  There are 21 confirmed cases of COVID-19 on board.Global cases have reached 107,559 according to Johns Hopkins University.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 437 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 32 states and the District of Columbia.Known active locations, are as follows: Washington 110, California 99, New York 89, Texas 19, Nebraska 14, Massachusetts 13, Florida 12, Colorado 8, Georgia 7, Illinois and Oregon 6, Arizona 5, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Pennsylvania 4, Maryland and Rhode Island 3, Nevada, North Carolina, South Carolina, Utah, Virginia 2, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Vermont and Wisconsin 1. We have updated how we are reporting global cases outside of China.If there are less than 10 cases in a country, with no substantial day to day change, we will not report that country.Global cases outside of China with 10 or more cases: Republic of Korea 7,314, Iran 6,566, Italy 5,883, France 949, Germany 939, Spain 589, Japan 461, United Kingdom 273, Switzerland 268, Netherlands 265, Sweden 203, Belgium 169, Norway 157, Singapore 150, Austria 104, Malaysia 93, Bahrain 85, Australia 76, Greece 66, Kuwait 62, Canada 60, Iraq 54, Iceland and Thailand 50, United Arab Emirates 45, India 39, San Marino 36, Lebanon 28, Denmark 27, Czech Republic 26, Israel and Portugal 25, Finland 23, Palestine 22, Vietnam 21, Algeria, Brazil and Ireland 19, Oman 16, Egypt and Russian Federation 15, Ecuador 14, Georgia and Romania 13, Croatia, Qatar and Slovenia 12, Saudi Arabia 11, Estonia 10. Columbia, Maldives and Serbia report their first cases.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

030720 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Saturday March 7th, 2020.  Confirmed COVID-19 cases in the U.S. rise by more than 100 in 24 hours, as Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, Oklahoma and South Carolina all record their first cases.  There are now 340 cases in 28 states.  Florida reports two fatalities, bringing the total number in the U.S. to 17 lost lives.  The CDCC recommends that older persons and those with chronic health conditions, “stay home as much as possible”.  Test results are back for passengers on the Grand Princess Cruise ship off the California coast, with 21 testing positive for the virus.  There are more than 3500 people on board.  In Austin, the South by Southwest conference has been cancelled for the first time in 34 years.  Amtrak is suspending the nonstop Acela service between New York and Washington.Stanford joins The University of Washington and Seattle University in cancelling all in person classes, according to The New York Times.  Classes and finals will now take place remotely. In Italy, the Leader of the Democratic Party, announced that he has tested positive for the virus, reports The Washington Post.  Via Facebook, Nicola Zingaretti said he is in isolation at home and feeling “fine”. There are 102, 471 global cases according to Johns Hopkins University.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 340 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 28 states.  Known active locations, are as follows: Washington 86, California 79, New York 44, Texas 19, Nebraska 14, Colorado and Massachusetts 8, Florida 7, Illinois 6, New Jersey 4, Arizona, Georgia, Maryland, Rhode Island 3, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Utah 2, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Wisconsin 1. We have updated how we are reporting global cases outside of China.  If there are less than 10 cases in a country, with no substantial day to day change, we will not report that country. Global cases outside of China with 10 or more cases: Republic of Korea 7,041, Iran 4,747, Italy 4,636, Germany 670, France 653, Japan 420, Spain 401,  Switzerland 214, United Kingdom 164, Singapore 130, Netherlands 128, Belgium 109, Norway 108, Sweden 101, Malaysia 83, Austria 66,  Australia 63, Bahrain 60, Kuwait 58, Canada 54, Thailand 50, Iraq 48, Greece, Iceland and United Arab Emirates 45, India 31, Denmark and San Marino 23, Lebanon and Palestine 22, Israel 21, Czech Republic 19, Ireland and Vietnam 18, Algeria 17, Oman 16, Egypt and Finland 15, Brazil, Ecuador, Portugal, Russian Federation 13, Croatia 12, Estonia 10.  Malta, Peru and Togo report their first cases.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 030620 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Friday March 6th, 2020. The global total of cases has passed 100,000 according to Johns Hopkins University.The current number of cases is 100, 278.Congress has approved 8.3 billion in emergency spending to fight COVID-19, reports the New York Times. As Colorado, Maryland and Nevada are the latest states to confirm cases of the virus in the U.S, relays ABC News.Maryland, joins California and Washington State in declaring a “State of Emergency” relays the Washington Post.New York is monitoring 2,773 people who have self-quarantined, reports The New York Times.  Passengers aboard a cruise ship outside of California, await test results as 45 people showed symptoms or the virus.  There are about 2500 people on board according to CNN.  Vatican City has confirmed its first case of COVID-19, while the population is only 1,000 it welcomes millions of visitors each year.  NBC News notes, The Pope has tested negative for the virus.  Iran has closed 60,000 mosques, according to The Washington Post. In a Thursday press conference, The World Health Organization stated, “This is not a drill. This is not the time to give up. This is not a time for excuses. This is a time for pulling out all the stops. Countries have been planning for scenarios like this for decades. Now is the time to act on those plans.”The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 233 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 20 states.  Cases in Nebraska are only among “repatriated citizens”.    Known active locations, are as follows: Washington 75, California 60, New York 22, Texas 14, Nebraska 13, Illinois 5, Florida 4, Maryland 3, Arizona, Georgia, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Oregon, Rhode Island 2, Colorado, North Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Wisconsin 1. Global cases outside of China: Republic of Korea 6,593, Iran 4,747, Italy 3,858, Germany 577, France 423, Japan 381, Spain 360,  Switzerland 138, Singapore 130, United Kingdom 116, Belgium 109, Norway 106, Sweden 101, Malaysia 83, Netherlands 82, Australia 60, Kuwait 58, Bahrain 55, Canada and Thailand 48, Austria 47, Greece 45, Iceland 37, Iraq 35, India 31, United Arab Emirates 29, Denmark 23, San Marino 21, Algeria 17, Israel, Lebanon, Oman and Vietnam 16, Egypt and Finland 15, Ecuador 13, Czech Republic 12, Croatia 11, Estonia 10, Portugal and Qatar 8, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Ireland, Pakistan and Romania 6, Mexico, Philippines and Saudi Arabia 5, Brazil, Chile, Georgia, Indonesia, New Zealand, Palestine, Russian Federation and Senegal 4, St. Barth’s 3, Argentina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, Luxembourg and Morocco 2, Afghanistan, Andorra, Armenia, Bhutan, Cambodia, Cameroon, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Faroe Islands, Jordan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Monaco, Nepal, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Poland, Serbia, Slovakia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tunisia, Ukraine and Vatican City 1.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

030520 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Thursday March 5th, 2020. Texas and New Jersey report their first Non-repatriated cases of coronavirus, bringing the total in the U.S. to 161 reports CNN.  There have been 11 deaths in the U.S. attributed to the virus 10 in Washington State and 1 in California.  The New York Times relays that California has declared a state of emergency, they have reported 54 cases.  A cruise ship is being held off the coast of California, with 11 passengers and 10 crew members showing symptoms of the virus.  There are about 2500 people on board, notes CNN.   Schools continue to close throughout the world, reports the Washington Post, including a school district north of Seattle, Washington, primary schools in India and all schools in Iran.  The Post also notes that Mass in some Northern Regions of Italy will be cancelled for a week.Reuters calls the step “unprecedented” noting that even during the plague, Masses were not cancelled.  The United Kingdom saw its largest one day increase, with cases jumping up 60% to 90 according to The Guardian.  Germany also saw its largest one day increase, adding 109 cases for a total of 349, reports CNN.  Global case count 95,748, with 3,286 fatalities. The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 161 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 17 states.  Cases in Nebraska are only among “repatriated citizens”.    Known active locations, are as follows: California 54, Washington 44, Nebraska 13, Texas 12, New York 11, Illinois 4, Florida 3, Arizona, Georgia, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Oregon, Rhode Island 2, New Jersey, North Carolina, Utah, Wisconsin 1. Global cases outside of China: Republic of Korea 6,088, Italy 3,089, Iran 2,922, Germany 349, Japan 331, France 285, Spain 222,  Singapore 110, Switzerland and United Kingdom 90, Kuwait and Norway 56, Australia and Bahrain 52, Malaysia 50, Thailand 47, Netherlands 38, Iraq and Sweden 35, Canada 34, India 30, Austria 29,  United Arab Emirates 28, Iceland 26, Belgium 23, San Marino and Vietnam 16, Israel and Oman 15, Lebanon 13, Algeria 12, Croatia, Denmark and Ecuador 10, Greece 9, Czech Republic and Qatar 8, Finland 7, Belarus, Ireland and Romania 6,Mexico, Pakistan and Portugal 5, Brazil and Senegal 4, Azerbaijan, Georgia, New Zealand, Philippines, Russian Federation and St. Barth’s 3, Egypt, Estonia, Hungary, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia 2, Afghanistan, Andorra, Armenia, Argentina, Cambodia, Chile,  Dominican Republic, Faroe Islands, Jordan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Monaco, Morocco, Nepal, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Poland, Sri Lanka, Tunisia and Ukraine 1.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Wednesday March 4th, 2020. There are 128 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. with 9 deaths, relays Johns Hopkins.  All U.S. fatalities have occurred in Washington State.  North Carolina confirms their first case of COVID-19, the patient had traveled to Washington State, according to CNBC.  The CDC are removing restrictions on testing and will release updated guidelines to expedite testing for those who fear they have the virus, notes the New York Times.The World Health Organization announced the death rate of COVID-19 is 3.4 percent, the seasonal flu is less than 1 percent.  Iran has temporarily released 54,000 inmates to slow the spread of the virus and Italy is considering closing all schools and universities until mid-March, says CNN.  Chile and Argentina, record their first cases of the virus, reports The Washington Post as The Caribbean begins to see the virus, with cases reported in the Dominican Republic, St. Barth’s and St. Martin according to The Antigua Observer.  The global total of cases tops 92,800.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 128 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 16 states.  Cases in Nebraska and Texas are only among “repatriated citizens”.  Known active locations, including “repatriated citizens” are as follows: California 40, Washington 30, Nebraska 13, Texas 11, Illinois 4, Florida 3, Arizona, Georgia, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island 2, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Utah, Wisconsin 1.Global cases outside of China: Republic of Korea 5,261, Iran 2,822, Italy 2,502, Japan 304, Germany 244, France 212, Spain 193,  Singapore 110, Switzerland 68, Kuwait 56, United Kingdom 53, Bahrain 49, Thailand 43, Australia 42, Netherlands 38, Malaysia 36, Sweden 35, Canada 33, Iraq and Norway 32, India 28, Austria and United Arab Emirates 27, Belgium 23, Iceland and Vietnam 16, San Marino and Israel 15, Lebanon 13, Oman 12, Denmark 10, Croatia 9, Greece and Qatar 8, Ecuador 7, Belarus and Finland 6,  Algeria, Czech Republic, Mexico, Pakistan and Portugal 5, Romania 4, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Philippines, Russian Federation and St. Barth’s 3, Andorra Brazil, Egypt, Estonia, Indonesia, New Zealand and Senegal 2, Afghanistan, Armenia, Argentina, Cambodia, Chile,  Dominican Republic, Jordan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Monaco, Morocco, Nepal, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, St. Martin, Ukraine and Tunisia 1.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 030320 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Tuesday March 3rd, 2020.   Georgia and New Hampshire report cases of COVID-19 as the U.S. number rises to 105 in 15 states, though cases in Nebraska and Texas are only among “repatriated citizens”.  Officials warn that number is likely much higher, according to USA Today.  At present, there have been 6 deaths in the U.S. attributed to the virus, all are in Washington State.  The FDA said up to a million could be tested for the virus in the U.S. by the end of the week.  CNN reports, a federal judge has denied a request by the city of San Antonio to keep Diamond Princess Cruise ship passengers in quarantine at Lackland Air Force Base.   The passengers have been in quarantine for two weeks and have tested negative for the virus.  The Washington Post notes a dramatic increase in cases in Iran in just one day, as 835 new cases were confirmed today.   Iran now has 2,336 cases up from 2 cases two weeks ago.  The Post also reports that India has “suspended entry to travelers” from South Korea, Iran, Italy and Japan, in an effort to control the spread of the virus.  The total number of global cases is at 91,300 according to CNBC.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 105 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in 15 states.  Cases in Nebraska and Texas are only among “repatriated citizens”.    Known active locations, including “repatriated citizens” are as follows: California 37, Washington 23, Nebraska 13, Texas 11, Illinois 4, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island 2, Arizona, New Hampshire, Utah, Wisconsin 1. Global cases outside of China: Republic of Korea 5,186, Iran 2,336, Italy 2,036, Japan 260, France 191,a Germany 165, Spain 120,Singapore 108, Kuwait 56, United Kingdom 51, Bahrain 49, Thailand 43, Switzerland 42, Malaysia 36, Australia 35, Iraq 26, Canada and Norway 25, United Arab Emirates 21, Austria and Netherlands 18, Vietnam 16, Sweden 15, Lebanon 13, Israel 12, Croatia and Iceland 9, Belgium and San Marino 8, Ecuador, Greece and Qatar 7, Finland and Oman  6,  Algeria, India, Czech Republic, Mexico and Pakistan 5, Denmark 4, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Philippines, Romania and Russian Federation 3, Brazil, Egypt, Indonesia and Portugal 2, Afghanistan, Andorra, Armenia, Belarus, Cambodia, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Jordan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Monaco, Morocco, Nepal, New Zealand, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sri Lanka and Tunisia 1.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 030220 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Monday March 2nd, 2020. New York, Florida and Rhode Island report their first cases of COVID-19, notes CNN bringing total cases in the US to 89 in 12 states.  There has been a second death in the U.S. due to the virus, both in Washington State, where they have declared a “state of emergency” according to The New York Times.  Researchers suggest “the virus may have been spreading there for weeks”, with up to 1500 people infected. ABC News relays that Italian Health Officials confirmed 806 new cases on Sunday, marking a 91% increase in one day.  Italy has 1,694 confirmed cases.  Delta is suspending U.S. flights to Milan, according to CNN. Portugal has confirmed their first two cases of COVID-19 reports The Guardian.  Bringing the total number of global cases to more than 89,000 people in 60 countries, with more than 3,000 deaths according to The New York Times.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 89 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.Known active locations are as follows: California: 1 in Alameda County, 1 in Humboldt County, 1 in Los Angeles County, 1 in Orange County, 2 in San Benito County, 7 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Solano County Florida:  1 in Hillsborough County, 1 in Manatee County Illinois:  2 in Cook County Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Nebraska:  12 in Douglas County New York:  1 in New York County, Oregon:  2 in Washington County Rhode Island:  2 Providence County Texas:  11 in Bexar County Washington State:  8 in King County, 1 in Snohomish County  Wisconsin:  1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China: Republic of Korea 4,335, Italy 1,694, Iran 1,501, Japan 256, France and Germany 130, Singapore 106, Spain 84, Bahrain 47, Kuwait 45, Thailand 43, United Kingdom 40, Australia and Malaysia 29, Switzerland 27, Canada 24, United Arab Emirates and Iraq 21, Norway 19, Vietnam 16, Sweden and Austria 14, Israel, Lebanon and Netherlands 10, San Marino 8, Croatia and Greece 7, Ecuador, Finland and Oman  6,  Mexico 5, Denmark, Pakistan and Qatar 4, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Czech Republic, Georgia, Iceland, India, Phillipines and Romania 3, Belgium, Brazil, Egypt, Indonesia, Portugal and Russian Federation 2, Afghanistan, Armenia, Belarus, Cambodia, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Monaco, Nepal, New Zealand, Nigeria, North Macedonia and Sri Lanka Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.      NY Times-People tested positive in Scotland and the Dominican Republic. With two more cases in Washington State and one in Rhode Island, the total in the United States has reached 73.Officials in Washington State confirmed on Sunday two more cases of coronavirus in King County, bringing the total in the county to six and the number in the United States to 73.ABC News-American Airlines joins the growing list of air carriers that will waive fees for all of its flights due to coronavirus concerns.All travelers who book an American flight between March 1 and March 16 can have their change fee waived as long as the request is made up to 14 days prior to the flight, airline officials announced Sunday evening."This change offers customers the best fares with even more flexibility," an American Airlines spokesperson said in a statement.JetBlue said it would waive change and cancellation fees for flights booked through March 11. This new rule applies to travel completed by June 1.Italian officials announced Sunday that the number of positive cases of coronavirus is now at 1,694, including 806 additional cases on Sunday -- marking a 91% one-day increase.CNN-Delta Air Lines is suspending its US flights to Milan,WHO-The number of confirmed cases in Hubei province, China, has increased for... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 030120 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Sunday March 1st, 2020.  The United States, Australia and Thailand, all confirmed their countries first death due to COVID-19 relays The Washington Post, bringing the total of lives lost to 2,976.  The U.S. death was in Kirkland, Washington, a man in his 50’s with underlying health conditions.  Washington state has declared a “state of emergency” according to The New York Times, as researchers suggest “the virus may have been spreading there for weeks”, with up to 1500 people infected.  A nursing home in King County Washington is being investigated as 27 residents and 25 staff members have shown symptoms of the virus, reports the Washington Post.  Globally, there are 86,500 cases according to CNN.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 71 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.Known active locations are as follows: California: 1 in Humboldt County, 1 in Los Angeles County, 1 in Orange County, 2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Solano County  Illinois:  1 in Cook County Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Nebraska:12 in Douglas County Oregon:  1 in Washington County Texas:  11 in Bexar County Washington State:  4 in King County, 1 in Snohomish County  Wisconsin:  1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China: Afghanistan 1, Algeria 1, Armenia 1, Australia 25, Austria 6, Azerbaijan 1, Bahrain 38, Belgium 1, Belarus 1, Brazil 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 15,Croatia 5, Denmark 2, Ecuador 1, Egypt 1, Estonia 1, Finland 3, France 100, Georgia 2, Germany 117, Greece 4, Iceland 1, India 3, Iran 987, Iraq 8, Israel 7, Italy 1,128, Japan 234, Kuwait 45, Lebanon 4, Lithuania 1, Luxembourg 1, Malaysia 25, Mexico 3, Monaco 1, Nepal 1, Netherlands 2, New Zealand 1, Nigeria 1, Norway 17, North Macedonia 1, Oman 6, Pakistan 2, Philippines 3, Qatar 1, Republic of Korea 3,736, Romania 3, Russian Federation 2, San Marino 1, Singapore 98, Spain 43, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 13, Switzerland 15, Thailand 42, United Arab Emirates 21, United Kingdom 23, Viet Nam 16.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 022920 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Saturday February 29th, 2020.  The U.S. now has at least 67 cases of COVID-19.With four of the most recent cases appearing to have come from “community transmission”, CNN notes.  Two of these cases are in California, one in Oregon and one in Washington State.   The World Health Organization has upped the risk assessment for COVID-19 to “Very High” on a global level.  The CDC has updated travel guidance and has put China, South Korea, Iran and Italy as “Level 3”, avoid Non-essential travel.  The CDC also asks “that all travelers reconsider cruise ship voyages into or within Asia at this time”.  The United Kingdom appears to have its first case of “community transmission” with a man from Surrey diagnosed with no travel history to an infected area or close contact with an infected person according to the New York Times.  The Times also notes, a Japanese man, who tested negative and was released from the Diamond Princess cruise ship, has now tested positive.He is the 5th passenger that has tested positive after being released and allowed to travel freely.CNN reports Osaka and Tokyo have cancelled their Cherry Blossom Festivals due to concerns over spread of COVID-19 as the global total of cases reaches 85,055 with 2,922 deaths.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 67 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.Of those 67, 6 have recovered and those patients removed from the following list.  Known active locations are as follows: California: 1 in Humboldt County, 1 in Los Angeles County, 1 in Orange County, 2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Solano County  Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Nebraska:  12 in Douglas County Oregon:  1 in Washington County Texas:  6 in Bexar County Washington State:  1 in King County, 1 in Snohomish County  Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China: Afghanistan 1, Algeria 1, Australia 25, Austria 6, Azerbaijan 1, Bahrain 38, Belgium 1, Belarus 1, Brazil 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 15,Croatia 5, Denmark 1, Egypt 1, Estonia 1, Finland 3, France 57, Georgia 1, Germany 53, Greece 4, Iceland 1, India 3, Iran 593, Iraq 8, Israel 7, Italy 889, Japan 234, Kuwait 45, Lebanon 4, Lithuania 1, Malaysia 25, Mexico 3, Monaco 1, Nepal 1, Netherlands 2, New Zealand 1, Nigeria 1, Norway 6, North Macedonia 1, Oman 6, Pakistan 2, Philippines 3, Qatar 1, Republic of Korea 3,150, Romania 3, Russian Federation 2, San Marino 1, Singapore 98, Spain 43, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 11, Switzerland 15, Thailand 42, United Arab Emirates 21, United Kingdom 20, Viet Nam 16.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 022820 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Friday February 28th, 2020.  Mexico reports their first case of COVID-19 notes The Guardian.  Azerbaijan, Belarus, Estonia, Lithuania, New Zealand, Nigeria and Pakistan also reported their first cases.  According to the New York Times, the case in Nigeria is the first in Sub-Saharan Africa and raises concerns on how an outbreak in Africa would affect the continent.The global total of cases has climbed to 83,300 with 2,858 deaths, the majority in mainland China reports CNN.The Washington Post reports Swiss officials have banned any gathering over 1000 people, this includes the upcoming Geneva International Motor Show which was to have opened next week.  CNN relays that 93 labs in the U.S. will be up and running by the weekend with a two-step test for COVID-19.  The New York Times reports there has been a whistle blower complaint in the U.S. claiming that federal health care workers did not have the proper training or safety equipment while working with quarantined Americans. The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 60 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.Of those 60, 6 have recovered and those patients removed from the following list.  Known active locations are as follows: California: 1 in Humboldt County, 1 in Los Angeles County, 1 in Orange County, 2 in San Benito County, 1 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Solano County  Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Nebraska:  12 in Douglas County Texas:  6 in Bexar County Wisconsin:  1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China: Afghanistan 1, Algeria 1, Australia 23, Austria 2, Azerbaijan 1, Bahrain 36, Belgium 1, Belarus 1, Brazil 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 14,Croatia 2, Denmark 1, Egypt 1, Estonia 1, Finland 2, France 38, Georgia 1, Germany 53, Greece 4, India 3, Iran 388, Iraq 5, Israel 3, Italy 650, Japan 222, Kuwait 45, Lebanon 3, Lithuania 1, Malaysia 25, Mexico 1, Nepal 1, Netherlands 2, New Zealand 1, Nigeria 1, Norway 1, North Macedonia 1, Oman 4, Pakistan 2, Philippines 3, Republic of Korea 2,337, Romania 1, Russian Federation 2, Singapore 96, Spain 25, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 7, Switzerland 15, Thailand 41, United Arab Emirates 19, United Kingdom 19, Viet Nam 16.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 022720 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Thursday February 27th, 2020.  The CDC reports the first case of COVID-19 with suspected “community transmission” in the U.S.  This means, the patient did not travel to China or have any known connection with a previously infected person.  ABC News reports that the 60th case of COVID-19 in the U.S. is in Solano County, California.  Germany also confirmed their first case of “community transmission” according to the New York Times.  With Denmark, Estonia, Norway, North Macedonia and Romania reporting initial cases of COVID-19. This brings the global number of cases to 81,109 according to the World Health Organization.  The continued growth of the virus has led Saudi Arabia to suspend pilgrimages to Mecca and Medina, two of Islam’s holiest cities, for those outside of the country, according to CNN.  And in Japan, CNN relays, that the Prime Minister has closed schools until the end of March.  As Japan records the first case of reinfection in the country.  A bus tour guide has tested positive for the virus a second time.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 60 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.Of those 60, 6 have recovered and those patients removed from the following list.  Known active locations are as follows: California: 1 in Humboldt County, 1 in Los Angeles County, 1 in Orange County, 2 in San Benito County, 1 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Solano County  Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Nebraska:  12 in Douglas County Texas:  6 in Bexar County Wisconsin:  1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China: Afghanistan 1, Algeria 1, Australia 23, Austria 2, Bahrain 26, Belgium 1, Brazil 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 11,Croatia 2, Denmark 1, Egypt 1, Estonia 1, Finland 1, France 18, Germany 18, Greece 1, India 3, Iran 245, Iraq 5, Israel 2, Italy 400, Japan 186, Kuwait 12, Lebanon 1, Malaysia 22, Nepal 1, Norway 1, North Macedonia 1, Oman 4, Philippines 3, Republic of Korea 1,766, Romania 1, Russian Federation 2, Singapore 91, Spain 14, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 1, Switzerland 1, Thailand 40, United Arab Emirates 13, United Kingdom 15, Viet Nam 16.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 022620 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Wednesday February 26th, 2020.  Algeria, Bahrain, Greece, Oman and Switzerland have all reported their first cases of COVID-19.  As the New York Times reports, for the first time, new daily cases outside of China were higher than those inside.  On Tuesday, China confirmed 411 new cases, there were 427 new cases confirmed outside of China.  Globally, there are 80,980 cases.  The World Health Organization shared some positive news, reporting that “14 countries that have had cases have not reported a case for more than a week, and even more importantly, 9 countries have not reported a case for more than two weeks: Belgium, Cambodia, Finland, India, Nepal, Philippines, the Russian Federation, Sri Lanka and Sweden.But that doesn’t mean that cases may not come back to these countries. But the cases that made it before have been contained.”The CDC has cautioned that the spread of the virus in the U.S. is a matter of “when not if” and encourages all citizens to take precautions like getting a flu shot, washing hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, coughing into their elbow, disposing of dirty tissues, avoiding sick people and staying home if you are sick.The U.S. now has 57 reported cases, 40 coming from passengers on the Diamond Princess, 3 from people brought home from China and 14 cases in the U.S. according to CNN.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 57 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.This includes 43 “repatriated” individuals including those passengers infected on the Diamond Princess and 14 U.S. cases.  Of those 57, 6 have recovered and those patients removed from the following list.  Known active locations are as follows: California: 1 in Humboldt County 2 in San Benito County, 1 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Nebraska:  12 in Douglas County Texas:  6 in Bexar County Wisconsin:  1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China: Afghanistan 1, Algeria 1, Australia 22, Austria 2, Bahrain 26, Belgium 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 11,Croatia 1, Egypt 1, Finland 1, France 12, Germany 16, Greece 1, India 3, Iran 139, Iraq 1, Israel 2, Italy 325, Japan 157, Kuwait 12, Lebanon 1, Malaysia 22, Nepal 1, Oman 2, Philippines 3, Republic of Korea 1,261, Russian Federation 2, Singapore 90, Spain 2, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 1, Switzerland 1, Thailand 37, United Arab Emirates 13, United Kingdom 9, Viet Nam 16.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 022520 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Tuesday February 25th, 2020.  The White House requests $1.25 billion from congress to fight the virus.As the repatriated citizens from the Diamond Princess are added to the list, the number of U.S. cases jumps to 53, according to ABC News.  However, 6 of those patients have recovered notes NBC News including 2 in Illinois, 2 in California, 1 in Arizona and 1 in Washington State.  The New York Times reports the Deputy Health Minister in Iran has tested positive for COVID-19 as numbers continue to grow there.  Iran has 95 confirmed cases with 15 deaths.   The Times also reports that a hotel on the Spanish resort island of Tenerife has a reported case and guests are being told to stay in their rooms.  There are about 1000 guests booked in the hotel.  Austria and Croatia confirm their first cases according to The Guardian.Global case totals as reported by CNBC show 80,200 cases with 2,704 deaths.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There have been 53 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.  This includes 39 “repatriated” individuals including those passengers infected on the Diamond Princess and 14 U.S. cases.  Of those 53, 6 have recovered and those patients removed from the following list.  Known active locations are as follows: California: 1 in Humboldt County 2 in San Benito County, 1 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Nebraska:  12 in Douglas County Texas:  6 in Bexar County Wisconsin:  1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China: Afghanistan 1, Australia 22, Austria 2, Belgium 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 11,Croatia 1, Egypt 1, Finland 1, France 12, Germany 16, India 3, Iran 95, Iraq 1, Israel 1, Italy 283, Japan 144, Kuwait 3, Lebanon 1, Malaysia 22, Nepal 1, Philippines 3, Republic of Korea 893, Russian Federation 2, Singapore 89, Spain 2, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 1, Thailand 35, United Arab Emirates 13, United Kingdom 9, Viet Nam 16.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 022320 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Monday February 24th, 2020.  Newsweek reports a 26% increase in cases outside of China on Sunday, bringing the total number of global cases to 78,800.  Afghanistan, Iraq and Kuwait all confirm their first case of COVID-19 according to the New York Times.  Worldwide markets have been affected by ramifications of the virus with the Dow plunging more than 950 points on the opening bell, NBC News reports.  The Guardian has reported the 7th death in Italy since Friday.  There is conflicting information coming out of Iran as Iranian media has the country’s death toll at 50, while recent official numbers have it at 12 according to the AP.  Either count gives Iran the highest death toll outside of mainland China.  Italy and Iran are the latest countries added to the CDC travel watch list, as level 1, travel with “usual precautions”.  Japan, South Korea and China are also on the list with higher level alerts. The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There are 35 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.  The total is for 21 “repatriated” individuals and 14 U.S. cases.  Known locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California: 1 in Humboldt County 2 in San Benito County, 1 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Nebraska:  11 in Douglas County Texas:  1 in Bexar County Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China: Afghanistan 1, Australia 22, Belgium 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 9, Egypt 1, Finland 1, France 12, Germany 16, India 3, Iran 61, Iraq 1, Israel 1, Italy 219, Japan 105, Kuwait 1, Lebanon 1, Malaysia 22, Nepal 1, Philippines 3, Republic of Korea 833, Russian Federation 2, Singapore 89, Spain 2, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 1, Thailand 35, United Arab Emirates 13, United Kingdom 9, Viet Nam 16.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 022320 This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Sunday February 23rd, 2020.  The World Health Organization stressed that “the window of opportunity is narrowing” for containment.  The CDC is preparing for COVID-19 to be a pandemic, ”Our goal continues to be slowing the introduction of the virus into the U.S. This buys us more time to prepare communities for more cases and possibly sustained spread.”The U.S. has 35 cases.  The CDC is classifying these by “repatriated” and U.S. cases “"We are keeping track of cases resulting from repatriation efforts separately because we don't believe those numbers accurately represent the picture of what is happening in the community in the United States at this time,"The New York Times reports shut downs and closures throughout the world, including Pakistan and Turkey temporarily closing their borders to Iran, South Korea declaring a Level 4 alert, that allows the government to bar visitors from certain countries, restrict public transportation and lock down cities, and Venice cancelling the last two days of Venice Carnival.   All 3 countries have had a rapid increase in number of cases.CNN has the latest numbers at 79,930 with 2,465 deaths, all but 20 in mainland China.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There are 35 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.  The total is for 21 “repatriated” individuals and 14 U.S. cases.  Known locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California: 1 in Humboldt County 2 in San Benito County, 1 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Nebraska:  11 in Douglas County Texas:  1 in Bexar County Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China: Australia 21, Belgium 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 7, Egypt 1, Finland 1, France 12, Germany 16, India 3, Iran 28, Israel 1, Italy 132, Japan 105, Lebanon 1, Malaysia 22, Nepal 1, Philippines 3, Republic of Korea 602, Russian Federation 2, Singapore 89, Spain 2, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 1, Thailand 35, United Arab Emirates 11, United Kingdom 9, Viet Nam 16.Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.  Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 022220This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Saturday February 22nd, 2020.  South Korea has confirmed an increase of 229 cases in the last 24 hours.  According to CNN, 231 of the reported 433 cases in South Korea have been linked to a religious group.  The CDC announces 34 U.S. cases of these, 21 were “repatriated” from the Diamond Princess or China.  The U.S. patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 but remain in Japan, will not be included in the U.S. count until the CDC can independently confirm their test results.  The New York Times reports that Iran has the highest death rate outside of China, with 28 total cases and 5 deaths.  USA Today has the latest count at 77,900 global cases linked to 2,360 deaths.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There are 34 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.  Known locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California: 1 in Humboldt County 2 in San Benito County, 1 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Nebraska:  11 in Douglas County Texas:  1 in Bexar County Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China: Australia 17, Belgium 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 7, Egypt 1, Finland 1, France 12, Germany 16, India 3, Iran 28, Italy 32, Japan 93, Lebanon 1, Malaysia 22, Nepal 1, Philippines 3, Republic of Korea 433, Russian Federation 2, Singapore 85, Spain 2, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 1, Thailand 35, United Arab Emirates 9, United Kingdom 9, Viet Nam 16,Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 022120This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Friday February 21st, 2020.  South Korea cases of COVID-19 more than doubled in one day.  The Wall Street Journal reports 204 confirmed cases in the country, the majority linked to a Megachurch.  Lebanon has reported their first confirmed case according to CNBC, the female victim had recently traveled to Iran.  Cases in Iran have jumped dramatically over two days with 18 total cases and 4 deaths according to Reuters.  A health ministry official said “it is possible it exists in all cities in Iran”.The University of Nebraska Medical Center confirms that 11 of the 13 Diamond Princess passengers quarantined at their facility have tested positive for the virus.  USA Today, reports the Washington state man, who was the first confirmed case in the U.S., has fully recovered and is no longer in quarantine.The Santa Clara County Public Health department announced that the victim of the first reported case in that county has also fully recovered.  CNN has the global case number at 76,700 with 2,249 deaths, all but 11 in mainland China.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There are 25 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.  Known locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California: 1 in Humboldt County 2 in San Benito County, 1 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Nebraska:  11 in Douglas County Texas:  1 in Bexar County Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China: Australia 15, Belgium 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 7, Egypt 1, Finland 1, France 12, Germany 16, India 3, Iran 18, Italy 3, Japan 85, Lebanon 1, Malaysia 22, Nepal 1, Philippines 3, Republic of Korea 204, Russian Federation 2, Singapore 84, Spain 2, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 1, Thailand 35, United Arab Emirates 9, United Kingdom 9, Viet Nam 16,Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 022020This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Thursday February 20th, 2020.  South Korea reported its first death from COVID-19, reports the NY Times.  The 63 year old had been hospitalized in the psychiatric ward of a hospital for the last 20 years.  The Washington Post notes that the first two deaths have occurred from cases on Diamond Princess cruise ship, a Japanese man and woman, both in their 80’s.  The New York Times reports 74, 576 global cases with 2,118 deaths.  The CDC lists 52 cases pending under investigation in 42 U.S. states.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There are 29 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.  Known locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California:4 County Unknown  2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Nebraska:  10 in Douglas County Texas:  1 in Bexar County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County   Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China: Australia 15, Belgium 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 7, Egypt 1, Finland 1, France 12, Germany 16, India 3, Iran 2, Italy 3, Japan 73, Malaysia 22, Nepal 1, Philippines 3, Republic of Korea 51, Russian Federation 2, Singapore 81, Spain 2, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 1, Thailand 35, United Arab Emirates 9, United Kingdom 9, Viet Nam 16,Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 021920This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Wednesday February 19th, 2020.  Iran has confirmed its first two cases of COVID-19 according to CNN, pushing the global total to over 75,000 with over 2,000 deaths.  All but 6 in mainland China.  The most recent death was in   Hong Kong, reports CNBC.  NPR notes that 346 Americans have been released from quarantine on two military bases.They had been held for 14 days following evacuation from Wuhan China in early February. The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There are 29 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S.  Known locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California:4 County Unknown  2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Nebraska:  10 in Douglas County Texas:  1 in Bexar County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County   Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China:Australia 15, Belgium 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 8, Egypt 1, Finland 1, France 12, Germany 16, India 3, Italy 3, Japan 65, Malaysia 22, Nepal 1, Philippines 3, Republic of Korea 31, Russian Federation 2, Singapore 77, Spain 2, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 1, Thailand 35, United Arab Emirates 9, United Kingdom 9, Viet Nam 16,Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 021820This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Tuesday February 18th, 2020.  The number of global cases rises to 73,400, with 1,873 deaths according to CNN.  With cases outside of mainland China nearing the 1000 mark.  In the U.S., the CDC says there are 60 cases pending under investigation in 42 states.The U.S. number of cases stands at 29.NBC News reports the head of a hospital in Wuhan passed at the age of 51.  He was the 9th known medical personnel to pass after contracting the disease in while working to fight it in mainland China.  The New York Times reports Australia, Canada and Hong Kong are working to evacuate citizens from The Diamond Princess, docked near Yokohama Japan.  There have been 542 cases confirmed on the ship.  The quarantine is set to end tomorrow.  Passengers who have tested negative and show no symptoms, will be checked one final time by an infrared camera before they are allowed to leave.U.S. citizens who remained on the ship will not be allowed back in the U.S. until March 4th.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There are 29 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. The locations for the 14 new cases have not yet been released.  Known locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County  Texas:1 in Bexar County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County   Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China:Australia 15, Belgium 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 7, Egypt 1, Finland 1, France 12, Germany 16, India 3, Italy 3, Japan 59, Malaysia 22, Nepal 1, Philippines 3, Republic of Korea 31, Russian Federation 2, Singapore 75, Spain 2, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 1, Thailand 35, United Arab Emirates 9, United Kingdom 9, Viet Nam 16,Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 021720This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Monday February 17th, 2020.  Two chartered aircrafts returned hundreds of Americans to the U.S. Sunday night, reports the Wall Street Journal.  One plane landed in California, the other in Texas.  Passenger Jeri Seratti Goldman shares her experience “Jeri Audio”.  Seratti-Goldman says some passengers on her plane were then taken to Nebraska for further observation.  With the planes arrivals, comes 14 new cases of COVID-19 to U.S. soil, bringing total cases to 29.  The passengers had tested negative two days prior and were only found to have the virus after leaving the ship.  The New York Times notes that the number of new cases of the virus in China has dropped to a three week low.  The Chinese government has ordered banks to disinfect cash with ultraviolet or heat treatments to slow the spread of the virus according to CNBC.  CNN reports 1,770 deaths due to the virus, with more than 71,000 case globally.  The majority in mainland China.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There are 29 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. The locations for the 14 new cases have not yet been released.  Known locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County  Texas:1 in Bexar County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County   Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Global cases outside of China:Australia 15, Belgium 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 7, Egypt 1, Finland 1, France 12, Germany 16, India 3, Italy 3, Japan 53, Malaysia 22, Nepal 1, Philippines 3, Republic of Korea 29, Russian Federation 2, Singapore 72, Spain 2, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 1, Thailand 34, United Arab Emirates 8, United Kingdom 9, Viet Nam 16,Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 021620This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest Coronavirus info for Sunday February 16th, 2020.  More than 69,000 have been infected with Covid-19 according to CNN, with 1,669 deaths.All but 4 in mainland China.  The New York Times reports the first death in Taiwan due to the virus, the 61 year old male passed Saturday.  He had no history of travel to mainland China, health officials are investigating.  The Times also notes an American woman who had been onboard the Westerdam, which docked in Cambodia last week, has tested positive for the virus since flying to Malaysia.  The ship had been at sea for 14 days, the time believed to be the maximum incubation period for the virus.  CNN shows an increase of 70 cases aboard The Diamond Princess cruise ship, docked outside of Yokohama, Japan.  This brings the total number of cases on board to 356.  The U.S. embassy notified passengers onboard of the intent to evacuate about 400 U.S. Citizens today.  Jeri Seratti-Goldman, is a passenger on the ship “Jeri audio”.  Once back in the U.S. they will face an additional 14 days of quarantine.  The World Health Organization says Egypt has reported its first case of the virus.Marking the first case on the African continent.The locations of U.S. and country diagnoses in a moment.There are 15 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the U.S.  locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County  Texas:1 in Bexar County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County   Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Global outside of China:Australia 15, Belgium 1, Cambodia 1, Canada 7, Egypt 1, Finland 1, France 11, Germany 16, India 3, Italy 3, Japan 41, Malaysia 21, Nepal 1, Philippines 3, Republic of Korea 28, Russian Federation 2, Singapore 67, Spain 2, Sri Lanka 1, Sweden 1, Thailand 34, United Arab Emirates 8, United Kingdom 9, Viet Nam 16,Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 021520This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest official Coronavirus info for Saturday February 15th, 2020.  A Chinese tourist is the first confirmed death due to Coronavirus in Europe according to The New York Times.  The 80 year old man had been hospitalized in Paris since January 25th.  CNN notes more than 67,000 cases globally with 1,520 deaths, all but 4 in mainland China.  The Guardian reports more than 200 people who attended a conference in London on February 6th are being contacted as one of the attendees have tested positive for Covid-19.  The World Health Organization notes 9 confirmed cases in the United Kingdom.In the U.S. the CDC shows 81 cases pending under investigation in 42 states.The locations of U.S. diagnoses in a moment.There are 15 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County  Texas:1 in Bexar County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County   Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 021420This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest official Coronavirus info for Friday February 14th, 2020.  The CDC notes that China has allowed a broader definition to diagnosis leading to a dramatic increase in cases of the virus.  CNN reports the global total stands at 64,453, with 1,383 deaths, all but 3 in mainland China.  There are 15 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the U.S.  CBS News confirms the latest case from Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio Texas.  The victim had been under quarantine since returning from China on February 7th.   The CDC relays that about 600 people remain under quarantine on U.S. military bases. The locations of U.S. diagnoses in a moment.There are 15 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County  Texas:1 in Bexar County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County   Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 021320  PMThis is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest official Coronavirus info for Thursday February 13th, 2020.  There are now 15 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the U.S.  The newest case is on Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio Texas, CNN reports.  The latest victim has been under quarantine since returning from China on February 7th.  This is the first case confirmed in Texas. USA Today has set the death toll at 1370, with all but 3 in mainland China.  Japan has reported its first death due to the virus. NBC News reports 59,805 cases globally.The CDC shows 66 cases pending in 41 states.The locations of U.S. diagnoses in a moment.There are 15 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County  Texas:1 in Bexar County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County   Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. For more info go to https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.htmlhttps://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019http://coronavirus411.com/   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

oronavirus021320This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest official Coronavirus info for Thursday February 13th, 2020.  The number of cases in the U.S. has risen to 14.  NBC News notes that the 14th case is the second from a group of citizens recently returned from Wuhan and quarantined on a San Diego Marine base.The CDC announced that the victims were on separate flights and do not believe it was a person to person transmission.CNN reports cases of the virus have passed 60,000 globally with 1,357 deaths, all but two in mainland China.According to The New York Times, the CDC has stated that some of the testing kits sent to state laboratories around the U.S. do not work properly.  Causing delays in diagnoses as some labs will need to continue to send tests to the central lab in Atlanta.  The CDC shows 66 cases pending in 41 states.The locations of U.S. diagnoses in a moment.There are 14 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 2 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County      Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County   Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 021220This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest official Coronavirus info for Wednesday February 12th, 2020.  The World Health Organization has officially named the disease COVID-19, short for “coronavirus disease 2019”.  The New York Times notes the death toll at 1,113 with a total number of cases at 44,653.Tuesday’s reported daily infections in China represented the lowest number reported since January 30th.However, cases continue to grow on a cruise ship docked outside of Yokohama, Japan NBC News reports.  There are 174 cases on board, which makes the ship the largest cluster of the virus outside of mainland China.  CNN notes good news for the first group of U.S. citizens to enter quarantine in late January upon return from Wuhan, as all 195 have been cleared and released.The locations of U.S. diagnoses in a moment.There are 13 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County      Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County   Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 021120This is Coronavirus 4-1-1. The latest official Coronavirus COVID-19 info for Tuesday February 11th, 2020. The U.S. number of cases of Coronavirus increases to 13, ABC News reports, as a member of the quarantined group, who returned February 5th from Wuhan China, has tested positive for the virus in San Diego. The CDC ups the number of states with cases Pending Under Investigation from 36 to 37 but shows a decrease in pending cases overall from 100 to 68. The World Health Organization announces global cases have crossed the 40,000 mark. CNN reports 43,090 cases globally with an additional 108 deaths on Monday.Bringing the global mortality rate to 1,018 deaths, all but two in mainland China.The locations of U.S. diagnoses in a moment.There are 13 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S. locations are as follows: Arizona: 1 in Maricopa County California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in San Diego County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.Illinois: 2 in Cook County Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County Washington State: 1 in Snohomish County Wisconsin:1 in Dane CountyAnother Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 021020This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest official Coronavirus info for Monday February 10th, 2020.  The death toll for the virus has crossed over 900 CNN reports, with more than 40,000 infected globally.  The World Health Organization sent an advance team to China Sunday night to assist with the outbreak.  According to the New York Times, China had rejected offers of help from the WHO and CDC:“the moves on Sunday appeared to signal that Beijing would at least partly reverse course”.   The U.S. numbers remain stable with 12 diagnoses and 100 cases Pending Under Investigation in 36 states. The locations of U.S. diagnoses in a moment.There are 12 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County      Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County   Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 020920This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest official Coronavirus info for Sunday February 9th, 2020.  NBC News reports the death toll in mainland China rose to 811 over the weekend, this has passed the number of deaths associated with the SARS outbreak in 2003.CNN notes more than 37,000 confirmed cases worldwide.  According to CNBC, the Chinese government has set aside 10 billion dollars to fight the virus.  Good news for those held on a cruise ship in Hong Kong, according to the NY Times, all 3600 aboard have tested negative and been released.  Those on a ship in Yokohama, not as fortunate as 70 have tested positive, including 14 Americans.  In the U.S. the CDC confirms there are 100 cases Pending Under Investigation in 36 states. The locations of U.S. diagnoses in a moment.There are 12 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows: Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County      Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County   Wisconsin:1 in Dane County Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 020820This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest official Coronavirus info for Saturday February 8th, 2020.  The New York Times is reporting the first death of a U.S. Citizen inside mainland China due to Coronavirus.  The 60 year old was in Wuhan, China.  CBS News notes two more planes transporting Americans from Wuhan, landed in California and Texas on Friday.  The 300 or so passengers will be under a two week quarantine.  CNN shows 34,400 cases worldwide with 86 deaths yesterday in China.This brings the Coronavirus death toll to 724, with all but two in mainland China.  In the U.S. the CDC confirms there are 100 cases Pending Under Investigation in 36 states. The locations of U.S. diagnoses in a moment.There are 12 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows:  Wisconsin:1 in Dane County California:  2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County   Arizona:1 in Maricopa County   Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 020720This is Coronavirus 4-1-1.  The latest official Coronavirus info for Friday February 7th, 2020. CBS News reports more than 31,000 cases worldwide with 638 deaths, all but 2 in mainland China.  According to The Wall Street Journal, Singapore is investigating “three new cases of infected citizens who have no known links to previous cases and haven’t recently traveled to China”.  The World Health Organization has announced a $675 million dollar preparedness and response plan covering February to April 2020.  The plan focuses on:Rapidly establishing international coordination and operational support;Scaling up country readiness and response operations;Accelerating priority research and innovation.The locations of U.S. diagnoses in a moment.There are 12 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows:  Wisconsin:1 in Dane County California:  2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County   Arizona:1 in Maricopa County   Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County Another Coronavirus 411 update daily or as news breaks.Find the latest information at C-D-C dot GOV-slash-Coronavirus or ask your smart speaker for “The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 020620THIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Thursday February 6th, 2020. The New York Times is reporting 28,018 cases worldwide with 563 deaths, the majority in mainland China.  Wisconsin health officials have confirmed the 12th case of Coronavirus in the U.S. The victim had recently traveled to China.  The CDC notes there are an additional 76 cases pending under investigation in 36 states.  In order to keep up with testing, the CDC has issued test kits to 100 laboratories across the country.  Previously, samples were only being tested at the CDC in Atlanta.   "THE LOCATIONS OF U.S. DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."There are now 12 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows:  Wisconsin:1 in Dane County California:  2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:2 in Cook County   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County   Arizona:1 in Maricopa County   Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS OR ASK YOUR SMART SPEAKER FOR "The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

020520  PMTHIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Wednesday February 5th, 2020. There are now 12 cases of confirmed Coronavirus in the U.S.Wisconsin health officials confirmed a case of Coronavirus in the state, but would not specify where due to privacy concerns.  The victim had recently traveled to China.  The latest numbers on the coronavirus show 24,324 infected with 492 deaths, all but two in mainland China.   "THE LOCATIONS OF U.S. DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."There are now 12 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows:  Wisconsin:1 case, county not available  California:  2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:2 in Cook County, city of Chicago   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County, city of Boston  Arizona:1 in Maricopa County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County city of Everett. ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS OR ASK YOUR SMART SPEAKER FOR "The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

020520THIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Wednesday February 5th, 2020. Two planes landed at bases in California this morning with Americans evacuated from Wuhan China.  One in Sacramento, the other in San Diego.  All passengers will be quarantined for 14 days.  The latest numbers on the coronavirus show 24,324 infected with 492 deaths, all but two in mainland China.   "THE LOCATIONS OF U.S. DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."There are now 11 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows:  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County, city of Chicago   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County, city of Boston  Arizona:1 in Maricopa County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County city of Everett. ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS OR ASK YOUR SMART SPEAKER FOR "The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.      Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

020420 PMTHIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Tuesday February 4th, 2020. The World Health Organization notes there are 20,630 confirmed cases in 23 countries.  There have been 427 deaths, all but two inside mainland China.  The CDC reports there are now 11 confirmed Coronavirus cases in the U.S. with 82 cases pending under investigation in 36 states.      "WE'LL UPDATE THE LOCATIONS OF U.S. DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."There are now 11 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows:  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County, city of Chicago   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County, city of Boston  Arizona:1 in Maricopa County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County city of Everett. ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS OR ASK YOUR SMART SPEAKER FOR "The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.     Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

020420THIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Tuesday February 4th, 2020. Worldwide, there are 20,600 confirmed cases in 23 countries.There have been 427 deaths, all but two inside mainland China.  The CDC reports there are now 11 confirmed Coronavirus cases in the U.S. with 82 cases pending under investigation in 36 states.      "WE'LL UPDATE THE LOCATIONS OF U.S. DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."There are now 11 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows:  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County, city of Chicago   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County, city of Boston  Arizona:1 in Maricopa County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County city of Everett. ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS OR ASK YOUR SMART SPEAKER FOR "The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”.     Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

THIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Monday February 3rd, 2020. The CDC reports there are now 11 confirmed Coronavirus cases in the U.S. with 82 cases pending under investigation in 36 states.   The two latest cases are in San Benito County California.  A man had recently returned from Wuhan and transmitted the virus to his wife.  This brings the U.S. total of confirmed cases to 11, with 6 in California.    "WE'LL UPDATE THE LOCATIONS OF U.S. DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."There are now 11 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows:  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County, city of Chicago   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County, city of Boston  Arizona:1 in Maricopa County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County city of Everett. ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS OR ASK YOUR SMART SPEAKER FOR "The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

THIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Monday February 3rd, 2020. There have been two more cases of Coronavirus reported in California, this time in San Benito County.  A man had recently returned from Wuhan and transmitted the virus to his wife.  This brings the U.S. total of confirmed cases to 11, with 6 in California.    "WE'LL UPDATE THE LOCATIONS OF U.S. DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."There are now 11 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows:  California:2 in San Benito County, 2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County, city of Chicago   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County, city of Boston  Arizona:1 in Maricopa County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County city of Everett. ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS OR ASK YOUR SMART SPEAKER FOR "The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

020220 PMTHIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Sunday February 2nd, 2020. There has been a second case of Coronavirus confirmed in Santa Clara County California, bringing the U.S. total to 9.  This case is unrelated to the other Santa Clara case, but the female victim had recently traveled to Wuhan China. There are now 17,205 confirmed cases in China with 361 deaths in China and one in The Phillipines.    "WE'LL UPDATE THE LOCATIONS OF U.S. DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."There are now 9 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows:  California:2 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County, city of Chicago   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County, city of Boston  Arizona:1 in Maricopa County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County city of Everett. ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS OR ASK YOUR SMART SPEAKER FOR "The Coronavirus 4-1-1 Podcast”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

020220THIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Sunday February 2nd, 2020. The Philippines have reported a death due to Coronavirus.  This is the first reported death outside of China. There are now 14,412 confirmed cases in China with 304 deaths.  The CDC has reported the 8th case of Coronavirus in the U.S.  The patient is in Boston and had recently traveled to Wuhan.   "WE'LL UPDATE THE LOCATIONS OF DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."The U.S has 121 cases pending in 36 states.  There are now 8 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows:  California:1 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County, city of Chicago   Massachusetts: 1 in Suffolk County, city of Boston  Arizona:1 in Maricopa County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County city of Everett. ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS OR ASK YOUR SMART SPEAKER FOR "CORONAVIRUS INFO". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

020120  PMTHIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Saturday February 1st, 2020. The CDC has reported the 8th case of Coronavirus in the U.S.  The patient is in Boston and had recently traveled to Wuhan.  The 7th case was reported in the San Francisco area.  China has confirmed 259 deaths due to the virus with 11,821 case confirmed in country.  In the wake of the virus American, Delta and United airlines have suspended direct air service to mainland China.   "WE'LL UPDATE THE LOCATIONS OF DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."The U.S has 121 cases pending in 36 states.  There are now 8 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows:  California:1 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County, city of Chicago   Massachusetts :  1 in Suffolk County, city of Boston  Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County city of Everett. ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS OR ASK YOUR SMART SPEAKER FOR "CORONAVIRUS 411 podcast". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

THIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Saturday February 1st, 2020. The CDC has reported a 7th case of Coronavirus in the U.S.  The patient is in the San Francisco Bay area and had traveled to Wuhan.  China has confirmed 259 deaths due to the virus and the worldwide total of cases has increased to nearly 12,000.  In the wake of the virus American, Delta and United airlines have suspended direct air service to mainland China.   "WE'LL UPDATE THE LOCATIONS OF DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."The U.S has 121 cases pending in 36 states.  There are now 7 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in the U.S.  locations are as follows:  California:1 in Santa Clara County, 1 in Los Angeles County 1 in Orange County.  Illinois:  2 in Cook County, city of Chicago   Arizona:1 in Maricopa County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County city of Everett. ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS OR ASK YOUR SMART SPEAKER FOR "CORONAVIRUS INFO". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

013120 PMTHIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Friday January 31st, 2020. The U.S. has issued a quarantine order for the 195 evacuees from Wuhan.  They are being held on a California air force base.  Additionally, the U.S. has issued a “Do not travel” alert for China.  The World Health Organization has declared the coronavirus a “Global Health Emergency”, meaning the virus is now a risk beyond China.  The virus has been confirmed in 18 countries outside of China, including the U.S.   "WE'LL UPDATE THE LOCATIONS OF DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."The U.S has 121 cases pending in 36 states.  Coronavirus diagnoses are as follows:  Illinois:2 in Cook County, city of Chicago California:  1 in Los Angeles County, 1 in Orange County.  Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County city of Everett. ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS OR ASK YOUR SMART SPEAKER FOR "CORONAVIRUS INFO". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

THIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Friday January 31st, 2020. The U.S. has issued a “Do not travel” alert for China.  The World Health Organization has declared the coronavirus a “Global Health Emergency”, meaning the virus is now a risk beyond China.  There are nearly 9800 cases worldwide, with 108 of those cases outside of China.  The U.S. has witnessed its first person to person transmission of the coronavirus in Illinois.  Bringing the total cases in the U.S. to 6.    "WE'LL UPDATE THE LOCATIONS OF DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."The new case of Coronavirus in the U.S. is the first person to person here and has been spread from a wife to her husband.  Coronavirus diagnoses are as follows:  Illinois:2 in Cook County, city of Chicago California:  1 in Los Angeles County, 1 in Orange County.  Arizona:  1 in Maricopa County Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County city of Everett. ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

THIS IS CORONAVIRUS 4-1-1.  THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO ON Thursday January 30th, 2020.  China has announced that an additional 38 patients have died, bringing the death toll for Coronavirus to 170 with a total of 7700 diagnosed with Coronavirus in mainland China.  THE World Health Organization notes 68 cases outside of China.  ACCORDING TO THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL, SO FAR, THERE HAVE BEEN 5 CASES confirmed in the United States with 36 states having cases Pending Under Investigation. "WE'LL UPDATE THE LOCATIONS OF DIAGNOSES IN A MOMENT."Coronavirus diagnoses are as follows:  California:1 in Los Angeles County, 1 in Orange County.  Arizona:1 in Maricopa County  Illinois:  1 in Cook County, city of Chicago  Washington State:  1 in Snohomish County city of Everett. ANOTHER CORONAVIRUS 411 UPDATE DAILY... OR AS NEWS BREAKS.  FIND THE LATEST INFORMATION AT C-D-C-DOT-GOV-SLASH-CORONAVIRUS OR ASK YOUR SMART SPEAKER FOR "CORONAVIRUS INFO". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure and can include:• Fever    Cough     Shortness of breathWhile there is currently no cure, preventive actions include:• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.• Stay home when you are sick.• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.I’m Jules Riley.  Another Coronavirus update daily…or as news breaks.  Find the latest information at C-D-C DOT GOV SLASH CORONAVIRUS or ask your smart speaker for Coronavirus Info.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.